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Ultimate Easy Chili

Ultimate Easy Chili


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  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A hearty, rich chili perfect for cozy dinners, game days, and meal prep. Ground beef, beans, and a bold spice blend make this comforting classic fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.


Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85/15)

1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed

1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 oz)

1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 optional jalapeño or bell pepper, diced


Instructions

1. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add diced onion, garlic, and optional peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

4. Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add kidney beans and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or cayenne pepper with the aromatics.

This chili thickens more as it sits—add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.

Make it vegetarian by replacing beef with black beans, lentils, or meat alternatives.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 840mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg