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Simple Hearty Chili Meal

Featured in: Seasonal & Holiday Recipes

This chili combines browned ground beef with kidney and black beans simmered in a spiced tomato base. Aromatics like onion, bell pepper, and garlic build depth, while chili powder and smoked paprika add warmth. Ready in under an hour, it offers a comforting and hearty dish ideal for busy evenings. Optional toppings like cheddar and sour cream enhance each serving.

To prepare, brown the meat, sauté vegetables, toast spices, and simmer with beans and broth for a rich flavor. Adjust seasoning and serve hot, perfect alongside cornbread or rice for added satisfaction.

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Updated on Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:34:53 GMT
A steaming bowl of simple weeknight chili topped with cheddar cheese and sour cream. Save
A steaming bowl of simple weeknight chili topped with cheddar cheese and sour cream. | circuitdish.com

A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, beans, and warming spices perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal Ready in under an hour

This chili has become my go-to on busy weeknights when I want something satisfying and easy to make

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
  • Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
  • Red bell pepper: 1, diced
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Diced tomatoes: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can
  • Kidney beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
  • Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
  • Tomato paste: 1 (6 oz / 170 g) can
  • Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium or vegetable broth
  • Chili powder: 2 tbsp
  • Ground cumin: 1 tsp
  • Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
  • Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
  • Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp optional for heat
  • Salt: 1 tsp or to taste
  • Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

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Step 1:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat Add the ground beef and cook breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through about 5 7 minutes Drain excess fat if needed
Step 2:
Add diced onion and red bell pepper Sauté for 4 5 minutes until softened Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more
Step 3:
Add chili powder cumin smoked paprika oregano cayenne if using salt and black pepper Stir to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices
Step 4:
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute
Step 5:
Add diced tomatoes kidney beans black beans and beef broth Bring to a simmer
Step 6:
Reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 25 30 minutes stirring occasionally
Step 7:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Step 8:
Serve hot with desired toppings
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Quickly chop vegetables, blend sauces, and prepare dips or dressings for fast, everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Quickly chop vegetables, blend sauces, and prepare dips or dressings for fast, everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
This delicious simple weeknight chili simmering in a Dutch oven with colorful vegetables. Save
This delicious simple weeknight chili simmering in a Dutch oven with colorful vegetables. | circuitdish.com

This is always a hit when I gather my family around the table after a busy day

Notes

Serve with cornbread or over steamed rice for a heartier meal Adjust the cayenne and chili powder to your spice preference For added depth stir in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a splash of coffee

Required Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven Cutting board Chefs knife Wooden spoon or spatula Can opener

Allergen Information

Contains None of the major allergens if prepared as listed Toppings such as cheese and sour cream contain dairy Double-check canned goods for cross-contamination if gluten-sensitive

Close-up of a hearty simple weeknight chili, perfect for a cozy, flavorful dinner. Save
Close-up of a hearty simple weeknight chili, perfect for a cozy, flavorful dinner. | circuitdish.com
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Keeps spoons and utensils off counters while cooking, catching drips and keeping your stovetop clean.
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This chili is sure to become a family favorite in your home as well

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well for a lighter and leaner version without sacrificing flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the meat and add extra beans or chopped mushrooms to keep it hearty and filling.

→ What are good toppings to serve with chili?

Shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños add texture and flavor.

→ How long should I simmer the chili?

Simmer covered on low for 25–30 minutes to meld flavors and tenderize ingredients.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, vary the cayenne and chili powder amounts to suit your preferred heat level.

Simple Hearty Chili Meal

A rich chili featuring ground beef, beans, and bold spices for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
40 minutes
Total Duration
55 minutes
Created by Luke Morris


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Portions 4 Serves

Diet Preferences Wheat-Free

What You'll Need

Meats

01 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter option)

Vegetables

01 1 medium yellow onion, diced
02 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 2 cloves garlic, minced

Canned Goods

01 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
02 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
03 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
04 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

Liquids

01 1 cup low-sodium beef broth (or vegetable broth)

Spices & Seasonings

01 2 tbsp chili powder
02 1 tsp ground cumin
03 1 tsp smoked paprika
04 1/2 tsp dried oregano
05 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
06 1 tsp salt, or to taste
07 1/2 tsp black pepper

Optional Toppings

01 Shredded cheddar cheese
02 Sour cream
03 Sliced green onions
04 Fresh cilantro
05 Sliced jalapeños

How To Make It

Step 01

Brown the meat: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper; cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook an additional minute.

Step 03

Incorporate spices: Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly coat meat and vegetables.

Step 04

Add tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to intensify flavor.

Step 05

Combine remaining ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 06

Simmer chili: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook gently for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 07

Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and modify seasoning as desired. Serve hot with preferred optional toppings.

Gear Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Can opener

Allergy Details

Always review every item for possible allergens. Ask your doctor if unsure.
  • Contains no major allergens when prepared as directed. Cheese and sour cream toppings contain dairy. Verify canned goods for gluten cross-contamination if sensitive.

Nutrition per Serving

Details are for reference only and don't take the place of professional guidance.
  • Caloric Content: 410
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Proteins: 32 g