This 30-Minute Chili is warm, cozy, and super easy to whip up! Packed with beans, ground beef, and spices, it’s sure to satisfy everyone in no time.
Perfect for busy nights, I love how I can get this chili on the table before I can even decide what to binge-watch! Plus, it’s great on its own or with some crunchy toppings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, ground turkey or chicken works well too if you prefer something leaner. Choose a mixture with some fat to keep it moist!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are perfect for convenience. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop and use about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes instead!
Kidney Beans: Kidney beans are classic in chili, but black beans or pinto beans can also add a nice twist. If you’re short on time, canned beans are the way to go!
Chili Powder: Chili powder packs in flavor! If you want a bit more heat, you could use chipotle chili powder. If you’re making it mild, a bit of sweet paprika works too.
How Can I Get the Right Flavor Balance in My Chili?
To get your chili bursting with flavor, focus on balancing spices and seasoning. Start by sweating your onions to bring out their sweetness, then add garlic for aroma right before the beef goes in.
- Don’t skip simmering – it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust seasonings at the end. A little more salt or chili powder can make a difference!
- If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper bit by bit until it suits your taste.
- As a twist, add a splash of vinegar or a bit of dark chocolate at the end for depth!
How to Make 30-Minute Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious and hearty meal on the table in just 30 minutes. Great for busy weeknights or quick gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook them until they’re soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This step builds a solid flavor base!
2. Cook the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. As it cooks, use a spoon to break it up into smaller chunks. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if there’s a lot!
3. Add the Flavors:
Now it’s time to stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell the garlic’s wonderful aroma! Then add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir.
4. Mix in Beans and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the kidney beans along with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon (if using), cayenne pepper, and some salt and pepper. Mix everything together so that all the flavors blend. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Simmer:
Bring the pot to a simmer and then lower the heat to medium-low. Allow the chili to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but don’t forget to keep an eye on it to prevent sticking!
6. Taste It:
After simmering, taste your chili. If it needs a little extra flavor, add more salt, pepper, or chili powder based on your preference. Adjust to your liking!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop the chili into bowls and top it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. It’s perfect on its own or paired with cornbread or crunchy crackers. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative to beef. You can also use ground pork or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground meat with lentils or a mix of your favorite beans. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to the freezer.
What Can I Serve With This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, crackers, or rice. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture!
