This 30-Minute Chili is a tasty and hearty dish that’s perfect for any day. With ground beef, beans, and spices, it packs a punch of flavors and comes together super fast!
I love making this chili when I’m short on time. Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and enjoy cozy bowls of yum in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds nice flavor and helps cook the onions. If you’re out of olive oil, any cooking oil like vegetable or canola will work too!
Ground Beef: I love the richness it brings, but ground turkey is a healthier swap if that’s your preference. You could even use black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
Beans: Kidney and black beans are great, but you can mix it up! Pinto beans or chickpeas could add a new twist. Just make sure to rinse them well to remove extra sodium.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor, but don’t worry if you’re missing some spices. A small dash of hot sauce or paprika can give it a kick. Adjust based on your taste!
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Your Chili?
Getting chili just right is all about the right simmer time and the balance of ingredients. Here’s how to achieve that perfect thickness:
- After browning the meat, be sure to toast the spices. It really brings out their flavor!
- When adding liquids, start with a cup of broth. You can always add more if needed.
- Let it simmer uncovered for the 15-20 minutes to reduce and thicken.
Also, feel free to mash a few beans against the side of the pot while cooking. This can create a thicker texture without adding extra ingredients!
How to Make 30-Minute Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and delicious chili takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking, giving you a total of just 30 minutes to a hearty, warm meal! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comfy meal without the wait.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delightful!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks, letting it brown until there’s no pink left, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off for a leaner chili.
3. Toast the Spices:
Now, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute. This helps to toast the spices and really bring out their flavors!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Time to add the fun stuff! Pour in the diced tomatoes (with all their juices), tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and the beef broth. Stir everything together so it’s well combined!
5. Simmer and Thicken:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then, allowing it to thicken up nicely.
6. Taste and Serve:
Once it’s thickened, give your chili a taste. You can adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or chili powder if you like. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped green onions. And don’t forget, cornbread on the side makes for a perfect pairing!
Enjoy your quick, hearty 30-minute chili!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for leaner meats.
What Can I Substitute for the Beans?
If beans aren’t your thing, you can substitute them with additional meat, corn, or diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything cooks through nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to reheat!
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
For a hotter chili, you can add more cayenne pepper or include chopped jalapeños, serrano peppers, or even a splash of hot sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance, and taste as you go!
