Easy Hamburger Chili Recipe in 45 Minutes

This easy hamburger chili recipe combines ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices for a hearty meal ready in under 45 minutes. Serves 6 with 350 calories per serving. Features one-pot preparation, customizable heat level, and freezer-friendly leftovers.

Looking for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family? This ground beef chili recipe transforms basic pantry staples into a comforting meal with minimal effort. Unlike traditional chili recipes requiring hours of simmering, our streamlined approach delivers deep flavor without the wait. The secret lies in properly browning the meat and using quality canned tomatoes for consistent results every time.

Why This Hamburger Chili Recipe Works

Many quick chili recipes sacrifice depth for speed, but this version maintains rich flavor through strategic ingredient layering. By searing the ground beef thoroughly before adding liquids, you create fond—the caramelized bits stuck to the pot—that forms the flavor foundation. Using both kidney and pinto beans adds textural contrast, while a touch of cocoa powder enhances the chili powder's earthiness without adding sweetness.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Hamburger Chili

The beauty of this easy hamburger chili recipe is its flexibility, but these core components ensure success:

Ingredient	Amount	Key Purpose
Ground beef (85% lean)	1.5 lbs	Provides meaty texture without excess grease
Yellow onion, diced	1 large	Creates aromatic base
Chili powder	3 tbsp	Essential flavor foundation
Canned crushed tomatoes	28 oz	Balances acidity and richness
Dark cocoa powder	1 tsp	Deepens flavor complexity

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the meat: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a 5-quart pot over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook 6-8 minutes, breaking into small crumbles until well-browned (not gray). Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add onions and bell peppers. Cook 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cocoa powder; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Build the chili: Pour in tomatoes, broth, and beans (undrained). Bring to simmer, then reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer: Cover and cook 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken slightly but remain soupy.
5. Final seasoning: Remove lid and cook 5 more minutes. Adjust salt, pepper, and heat level with cayenne.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Don't rush the browning: Properly seared meat creates flavor through the Maillard reaction. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pot.
• Acid balance: If your chili tastes flat, add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar to brighten flavors.
• Thickening trick: Mash some beans against the pot wall during cooking for natural thickening without cornstarch.
• Flavor development: Chili tastes better the next day. Make it ahead for deeper flavor.

Customization Options for Your Ground Beef Chili

This family-friendly hamburger chili adapts to various preferences:

• Vegetarian version: Substitute textured vegetable protein for beef and use vegetable broth
• Spicy kick: Add 1 diced jalapeño with the onions or 1/4 tsp cayenne with spices
• Texas-style: Omit beans and increase meat to 2 lbs for authentic flavor
• Slow cooker method: After browning meat and sautéing vegetables, transfer to slow cooker and cook on low 4-6 hours

Serving and Storage Recommendations

Serve this quick weeknight chili with:

• Cornbread or crackers for dipping
• Shredded cheddar, sour cream, and sliced green onions
• Avocado chunks for creaminess

Store leftovers in airtight containers:

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight before reheating)
• Reheating: Warm on stove over medium-low with a splash of broth to restore consistency

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make hamburger chili without beans?

Yes, this ground beef chili recipe works perfectly without beans. Simply omit them and increase the ground beef to 2 pounds for a meatier texture. Add an extra 1/2 cup broth to maintain liquid volume. Many traditional Texas chili recipes exclude beans entirely.

How do I fix watery chili?

If your quick weeknight chili seems too thin, remove the lid and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to reduce liquid. Alternatively, mash some beans against the pot wall to release starches that thicken the mixture naturally. A cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) added at the end also works in a pinch.

What's the best ground beef for chili?

85% lean ground beef provides the ideal fat content for hamburger chili—enough to keep it moist without excessive grease. Avoid 90% lean or higher as the chili may turn out dry. If using leaner beef, add 1 tbsp olive oil when browning. For richer flavor, try a blend of ground beef and pork.

How long should chili simmer for best flavor?

While this easy hamburger chili recipe is ready in 45 minutes, simmering 30-45 minutes total develops deeper flavor. For optimal results, make it a day ahead—chili always tastes better after flavors meld overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding liquid as needed.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well in this family-friendly hamburger chili recipe. Use 93% lean for best results. Since turkey has less fat, add 1 tbsp olive oil when browning. Boost umami with 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire. Cook time remains the same, but check for doneness as turkey cooks faster than beef.