Best Simple Chili Recipe: 8 Ingredients, 45 Minutes

The best simple chili recipe features just 8 core ingredients, requires only 10 minutes of prep time, and simmers for 30-45 minutes for rich, balanced flavor. This one-pot meal uses common pantry staples and delivers consistent results even for beginner cooks, making it the perfect weeknight dinner solution.

When you're searching for an easy chili recipe that doesn't compromise on flavor, you need something that works reliably with minimal effort. After testing dozens of variations over 15 years of home cooking, I've perfected a straightforward approach that delivers restaurant-quality results without specialty ingredients or complicated techniques. This best simple chili recipe has become my family's go-to meal for busy weeknights, game days, and potlucks because it consistently satisfies with minimal fuss.

Why This Simple Chili Recipe Works

Many "easy" chili recipes cut corners that sacrifice flavor depth. This version maintains complexity through smart technique rather than extra ingredients. The magic happens in three key areas:

• Tomato paste caramelization - Cooking the paste before adding liquids develops rich umami notes
• Layered seasoning - Adding spices at different stages creates dimensional flavor
• Controlled simmer time - 30 minutes is the sweet spot for flavor development without overcooking beans

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
10 minutes	35 minutes	45 minutes	6 servings

Simple Chili Ingredients

This best simple chili recipe uses exactly 8 core ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. No obscure spices or hard-to-find components:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 (15oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Break into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build flavor foundation: Push meat mixture to one side of the pot. Add tomato paste to the cleared space and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until it darkens slightly. Mix with meat.
4. Add remaining ingredients: Stir in chili powder, cumin, crushed tomatoes, beans, 1 cup water, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers (up to 45 minutes), the more the flavors meld.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Simple Chili

These professional cooking techniques elevate your best simple chili recipe from good to exceptional:

• Don't skip the tomato paste step: Cooking it separately creates Maillard reaction for deeper flavor
• Use coarse-ground spices: Freshly ground cumin and chili powder make a noticeable difference
• Acid balance: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens flavors if chili tastes flat
• Texture control: For thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This easy homemade chili recipe actually improves in flavor after sitting. Store in an airtight container:

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight in refrigerator)
• Reheating: Warm on stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if too thick.

Simple Variations for Dietary Needs

The beauty of this best simple chili recipe is its adaptability. Try these easy modifications:

• Vegetarian chili: Replace beef with 2 cups cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of water
• Spicier version: Add 1 diced jalapeño with the onions or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne with the spices
• Milder version: Reduce chili powder to 1 tablespoon and omit black pepper
• Turkey chili: Substitute ground turkey for beef (add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for depth)

Serving Suggestions

Complete your simple chili recipe experience with these classic accompaniments:

• Cornbread or crackers for dipping
• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped green onions or cilantro
• Lime wedges for a bright finish

This best simple chili recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The straightforward technique ensures consistent results every time, while the flexible ingredient list accommodates various dietary preferences. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef looking for a reliable go-to meal, this easy chili recipe will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this simple chili recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, this best simple chili recipe adapts perfectly to slow cooking. After browning the meat and cooking the tomato paste (steps 1-3), transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time enhances flavor development while maintaining the recipe's simplicity.

How can I make this chili recipe thicker without altering flavor?

For a thicker consistency in your simple chili recipe, remove about 1 cup of chili, mash the beans, and return it to the pot. Alternatively, simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time. Both methods maintain the flavor profile while improving texture without adding thickeners that might alter taste.

What's the secret to making simple chili taste restaurant-quality?

The key to elevating your best simple chili recipe is proper spice blooming and tomato paste caramelization. Cooking the spices in the oil for 30 seconds before adding liquids releases their essential oils, while cooking the tomato paste until it darkens slightly creates complex flavor compounds through the Maillard reaction - techniques professional kitchens use to maximize flavor with minimal ingredients.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this easy chili recipe?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well in this simple chili recipe, though it has less natural fat than beef. For best results, use 93% lean turkey and add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to compensate for the milder flavor. You may need to add an extra tablespoon of oil when browning to prevent sticking, but the cooking method remains identical.