This One-Pot Chili is a warm and hearty dish perfect for any day! With tender beans, juicy tomatoes, and a mix of spices, it’s loaded with flavor and goodness.
Making this chili in one pot means less mess for me, and I love that it’s ready in no time! Plus, it’s always a hit at gatherings—who doesn’t enjoy a good chili party? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: It adds a nice flavor to sauté your onions and garlic. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil instead.
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a great substitution for a lighter option. You can also go vegetarian by using a mix of mushrooms and lentils!
Beans: Kidney beans give a nice texture, but you can use black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Chickpeas could work too, just be sure to adjust the cooking time!
Spices: Chili powder and ground cumin are essential, but if you’re out, a taco seasoning mix can do the trick. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice tolerance!
How Can I Make Sure My Chili Is Full of Flavor?
Getting that deep flavor in your chili comes from a few key techniques. Start by sautéing onions until they’re soft and slightly golden, which brings out their sweetness. Then, toast your spices. This means adding them to the pot after browning the meat to release their full potential.
- Heat oil, sauté onions (3-4 mins), then add garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. This adds a rich flavor base.
- Don’t rush the simmering! Cook it low and slow for at least 30 minutes—this helps all the flavors meld together.
One-Pot Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Time Needed:
This One-Pot Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, so a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies.
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and translucent.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You want it to be fragrant but not burnt, so keep an eye on it!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s browned and there’s no pink left.
4. Toast the Spices:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices. This step really brings out the flavors!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth into the pot. Stir well to make sure everything is mixed together nicely.
6. Simmer:
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 a stir now and then. The chili will thicken, and all those delicious flavors will meld together beautifully!
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust any seasonings as needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or chili spices to suit your taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your one-pot chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. If you like, add some shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on the side. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Happy cooking! 🥘
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also go vegetarian by using lentils or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like a kick, add more cayenne pepper or include chopped jalapeños. You can also use a spicier chili powder or some crushed red pepper flakes to amp up the heat!
Can I Make This Chili ahead of Time?
Yes! Chili tastes even better the next day. You can make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
