Simple Easy Chili Recipe: 7 Ingredients, 30 Minutes

The simplest easy chili recipe requires just 7 basic ingredients and 30 minutes: brown 1 lb ground beef, add 1 chopped onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 (15oz) can kidney beans (drained), 1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp chili powder, and 1 tsp cumin. Simmer for 20 minutes. That's it—no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients needed for delicious homemade chili.

Looking for a quick weeknight chili recipe that doesn't sacrifice flavor? You've found it. This easy homemade chili with minimal ingredients proves you don't need complicated steps or specialty items to make satisfying chili. Perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike, this one-pot wonder comes together faster than delivery.

What makes this recipe stand out among simple chili recipes for beginners? It focuses on pantry staples while delivering deep, complex flavors through smart technique—not extra ingredients. You'll skip the common pitfalls that turn chili into bland tomato soup or overly spicy disappointment.

Why This Simple Chili Recipe Works

This 30 minute chili recipe succeeds by maximizing flavor from minimal components. The secret lies in properly browning the meat (don't skip this step!) and layering spices at the right time. Unlike many one-pot chili recipes, this method develops rich umami notes without requiring hours of simmering.

Food scientists confirm that browning meat creates Maillard reactions—those complex flavor compounds that make dishes taste "restaurant-quality." By taking just 5 extra minutes to properly sear your beef, you'll transform basic ingredients into something extraordinary.

Simple Chili Ingredients (Pantry Staples)

This family friendly chili recipe uses ingredients you likely already have:

Ingredient	Amount	Substitutions
Ground beef (85% lean)	1 pound	Ground turkey, plant-based crumbles
Yellow onion, chopped	1 medium	1 cup frozen diced onions
Garlic cloves, minced	2	1 tsp garlic powder
Chili powder	2 tbsp	Taco seasoning (use 3 tbsp)
Canned kidney beans	1 (15oz) can	Pinto or black beans
Crushed tomatoes	1 (28oz) can	Diced tomatoes
Ground cumin	1 tsp	Smoked paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the meat: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is no longer pink (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Bloom spices: Add chili powder and cumin, stirring constantly for 30 seconds to release essential oils.
4. Combine ingredients: Add crushed tomatoes and kidney beans with their liquid.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season: Taste and add salt as needed (about 1/2 tsp).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even easy homemade chili recipes can go wrong. Watch for these pitfalls:

• Skipping the meat browning step: This creates flat flavor. Proper browning develops complex taste compounds.
• Adding spices too early: Always add dried spices after draining fat but before liquids to "bloom" them.
• Overcooking beans: Add canned beans near the end to prevent mushiness.
• Not adjusting acidity: If your chili tastes flat, add 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice to brighten flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This healthy simple chili recipe actually tastes better the next day! Store in an airtight container:

• Fridge: Keeps for 4 days
• Freezer: Store up to 3 months in portion-sized containers
• Reheating: Warm on stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if too thick

Simple Variations

Customize this base recipe for different dietary needs:

• Vegetarian chili: Omit beef, use 2 cups cooked lentils, and add 1 diced bell pepper with the onions
• Milder version: Reduce chili powder to 1 tbsp and add 1 diced green bell pepper
• Spicier kick: Add 1 diced jalapeño with the onions and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Thicker chili: Mash 1/2 cup beans before adding
• Thinner chili: Add 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth

Serving Suggestions

Complete your quick weeknight chili recipe with these simple toppings:

• Freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced green onions
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Avocado slices

Pair with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers make excellent baked potato toppers or omelet fillings.

Why This Recipe Beats Canned Chili

Store-bought chili often contains unnecessary additives and excessive sodium. This family friendly chili recipe lets you control exactly what goes in your food. You'll avoid:

• Artificial preservatives
• Excess sugar (common in many canned varieties)
• Unnecessary thickening agents
• Overpowering spice blends

Plus, homemade chili costs about half as much per serving as premium canned options. One batch serves 4-6 people for under $5 in most regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes! Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. The slow cooking enhances flavor development while maintaining the recipe's simplicity.

How can I make chili without tomatoes?

For a tomato-free version, substitute 2 cups beef broth and 2 tbsp tomato paste (which adds depth without overwhelming tomato flavor). Add the paste when blooming your spices for best results in this easy homemade chili recipe.

Why does my chili taste bland?

Bland chili usually needs proper layering of flavors. Make sure to bloom your spices in oil for 30 seconds before adding liquids, and always finish with a splash of acid (1 tsp vinegar or lime juice) to brighten flavors in your simple chili recipe.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well in this quick weeknight chili recipe. For best results, use 93% lean turkey and add 1 tbsp olive oil when browning to compensate for less fat. The cooking method remains identical.

How do I thicken chili that's too watery?

If your simple chili recipe turns out too thin, create a slurry with 1 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water. Stir into simmering chili and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Alternatively, mash some beans against the pot side to naturally thicken the mixture.