This One-Pot Chili is a hearty and comforting dish packed with beans, ground meat, tomatoes, and spices. It’s all cooked together for a rich flavor with less cleanup, which is a big win!
I love how easy it is to make; just toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, it warms you up on chilly days—we all need a cozy hug in a bowl! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the chili! You can easily swap it for ground turkey or even plant-based meat if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. I sometimes use a mixture of beans instead for a meat-free version—still super tasty!
Kidney Beans: Kidney beans add a nice texture and protein. You can substitute them with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Canned beans are great for convenience, but you can also use dried beans—just soak and cook them beforehand!
Chili Powder: This blend of spices brings bold flavor. If you don’t have it, you can make a substitute using cumin, paprika, and a little cayenne pepper. My tip is to adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Tomato Sauce: It adds richness and a base for the chili. You can use crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste mixed with water if you run out. Both work just fine!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Flavorful?
Getting the flavors just right in your chili is key. Start by sautéing the onions until they’re soft; this enhances their sweetness. When adding spices, toasting them for a minute releases their essential oils, giving depth to your dish.
- Cook ground meat thoroughly and break it up; this helps with texture.
- Let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. Don’t rush this step! The longer it cooks, the better the flavors blend.
- Always taste before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference!
Remember, chili can always sit a little longer on the stove if you have the time—it just gets better!
How to Make One-Pot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One-Pot Chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm and hearty chili ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, stirring occasionally, until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it out.
3. Season the Chili:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors.
4. Add Tomatoes and Beans:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
5. Simmer and Cook:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, giving it an occasional stir. This will help the flavors meld beautifully!
6. Final Touches and Serve:
After the chili has simmered, taste it and add salt and black pepper according to your preference. If the chili seems too thick, feel free to add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Once ready, serve the chili hot in bowls. Top each bowl with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious, hearty meal!
Don’t forget, cornbread makes a fantastic side to soak up all that flavor!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this chili, and it still absorbs the flavors beautifully. Just follow the same cooking instructions for best results!
What Can I Substitute for Kidney Beans?
You can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas if you prefer! Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot, and they’ll still provide that hearty texture and flavor.
How Do I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply omit the ground meat and increase the quantity of beans (like kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas) for protein. You can also add diced bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture!
Can I Store Leftovers, and How Should I Do That?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
