This 30-Minute Chili is a quick and tasty dish that packs a punch! Made with ground meat, beans, and spices, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a game day feast.
You won’t believe how fast it comes together! I love serving it with some crusty bread. Just watch out, it might disappear in seconds—everyone loves a good chili! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Classic for chili, but ground turkey is a nice leaner option if you want. You can even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Onion: A small onion adds a great base flavor. If you’re in a rush, some onion powder can work as a quick substitute, though fresh is always better.
Beans: Kidney and black beans are a great combo for texture and nutrition. You can swap them with pinto beans or even chickpeas if you like! Canned beans save time, which is perfect for this recipe.
Spices: Don’t skip the spices; they bring the flavor! You can adjust the cayenne pepper if you like it more or less spicy. A pinch of cinnamon can also add an interesting twist!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
One key to great chili is building flavor from the start. Sautéing onions and garlic first makes a delicious base. Don’t rush this step! Take your time to let the onions soften before adding the ground meat.
- Start by heating oil, then add diced onion and cook until soft.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. This enhances the overall taste.
- Finally, toast the spices with the meat for a minute before adding any liquids—this will deepen their flavor.
Remember, tasting while you cook is essential. Adjust the seasonings to your liking as the chili simmers. Enjoy your delicious and quick chili!
30-Minute Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- chopped green onions
- shredded cheddar cheese
- cornbread (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili can be prepared in just 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking and simmering the chili. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a lovely flavor base for your chili.
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s fully browned. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it out if you prefer a leaner chili.
4. Toast the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 1 minute to let the spices toast and release their aromas.
5. Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato paste, drained kidney beans, and black beans. Pour in the beef broth or water, and stir everything together until fully combined.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for around 20 minutes. Stir occasionally. This simmering will help the flavors meld and the sauce thicken up nicely.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings as you like. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or spice!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot chili topped with a dollop of sour cream and chopped green onions. A side of warm cornbread is perfect for making it a delightful meal. Enjoy your hearty and comforting chili!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but make sure to thaw it first! The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight, or you can use the defrost function on your microwave. Once thawed, drain any excess liquid before browning it in the pot.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or use diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add more beans for protein!
How to Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for a quick meal later on!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra punch of flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar during cooking. A dash of hot sauce or fresh cilantro right before serving can also enhance the taste!
