Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe

Chili is one of those comforting dishes that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen newbie, this easy 5-ingredient chili recipe is the perfect go-to meal. It’s simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious. Ready to make the best chili with just a handful of ingredients? Read on for the full recipe, tips, and more!

this Recipe

What Is Chili?

Chili, also known as chili con carne, is a spicy stew containing chili peppers, meat (usually beef), and often tomatoes and beans. The dish has its origins in Mexican and Texan cuisine and has since become a popular dish in various parts of the world. Chili is beloved for its rich flavors and versatility. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, with beans or without, chili can be customized to suit your taste. This 5-ingredient version is perfect for those who want a quick and easy meal without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients List for 5-Ingredient Chili

To make this simple yet flavorful chili, you only need five main ingredients. These pantry staples make for a quick and easy meal that still delivers on taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Ground Beef: The base of your chili, ground beef provides a rich, meaty flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
2. Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add moisture and a slight acidity that balances the richness of the beef. Fire-roasted tomatoes can add an extra depth of flavor.
3. Canned Kidney Beans: A classic chili ingredient, kidney beans add texture and bulk to the dish. You can use black beans or pinto beans as alternatives.
4. Onion: This aromatic vegetable adds sweetness and depth to the chili, balancing the savory and spicy flavors.
5. Chili Powder: The key spice in this dish, chili powder gives your chili its signature heat and smoky flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about chili is its versatility. You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:

• Meat Substitutes: If you prefer a vegetarian chili, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Tofu crumbles or tempeh can also work well.
• Beans: While kidney beans are traditional, you can mix things up by using black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. If you’re not a fan of beans, you can omit them entirely, though the chili will be less hearty.
• Tomatoes: If you don’t have canned diced tomatoes, you can use crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, or even fresh tomatoes. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes might require a longer cooking time to break down.
• Spices: While chili powder is the main spice, you can add cumin, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and complexity. For those who like it extra spicy, add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this 5-ingredient chili is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of chili ready in no time.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion into small, even pieces. Drain and rinse the kidney beans to remove any excess sodium from the canning liquid.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. As the beef cooks, break it up with a spoon or spatula to ensure even cooking. If there’s a lot of excess fat, you can drain it off at this point.
3. Cook the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot with the ground beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and tender. This step allows the onion to infuse the beef with its sweet, aromatic flavor.
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (including the juice) and the drained kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the chili powder and stir to distribute the spice evenly throughout the chili. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili cook for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.

How to Cook 5-Ingredient Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking chili doesn’t have to be complicated. With just five ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the cooking process to help you perfect your chili-making skills:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by placing your pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned all over. This step is crucial because it helps develop the deep, savory flavor that makes chili so comforting. If your ground beef is particularly fatty, you might want to drain some of the excess fat. However, leaving a little fat can add richness to your chili.

Step 2: Add Onions and Cook Until Soft

Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the chopped onions. Cooking the onions in the same pot as the beef allows them to pick up all the flavorful bits left behind by the meat. Stir the onions frequently until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Beans

Next, pour in your canned diced tomatoes and drained kidney beans. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed. The tomatoes provide the liquid needed to simmer the chili, while the beans add bulk and texture.

Step 4: Season with Chili Powder

Now it’s time to add the chili powder. This spice is what gives chili its characteristic heat and flavor. Stir well so that the chili powder is evenly mixed throughout the dish. If you prefer a milder chili, you can start with less chili powder and add more to taste later on.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

Once all your ingredients are combined, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the chili cook for 20-30 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious dish. If you have more time, you can let the chili simmer longer for an even richer flavor.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, give your chili a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste. If you like a bit of sweetness, a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of vinegar can balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this 5-ingredient chili recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the ground beef adds a lot of flavor to the chili. Don’t skip this step, and make sure to cook the beef until it’s nicely browned.
• Not Draining the Beans: While it might be tempting to dump the entire can of beans into the pot, make sure to drain and rinse them first. The liquid in canned beans can be salty and starchy, which can throw off the flavor and texture of your chili.
• Underseasoning: Chili needs plenty of seasoning to taste its best. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preferences.
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Chili benefits from a longer cooking time. While this recipe calls for a 20-30 minute simmer, letting it cook longer (if you have time) will result in a richer, more flavorful dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, here are some tips for serving and presenting your chili:

How to Serve 5-Ingredient Chili

• Classic Bowl: Serve your chili in a deep bowl, topped with your favorite garnishes. Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. For extra heat, add a few slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Over Rice or Pasta: Chili is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it’s also delicious over a bed of rice, pasta, or even quinoa. This can make your meal more filling and provide a nice contrast in texture.
• In a Bread Bowl: For a fun and rustic presentation, serve your chili in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The bread absorbs some of the chili, making it even more delicious.
• As a Topping: Use your chili as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even hot dogs. It’s a great way to add flavor and substance to these dishes.

Presentation Ideas for 5-Ingredient Chili

• Garnish Generously: A simple bowl of chili can be transformed with the right garnishes. A sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a scattering of fresh herbs can make your chili look as good as it tastes.
• Serve in Individual Pots: If you’re serving chili at a party, consider serving it in individual cast iron pots or ramekins. This not only looks impressive but also keeps the chili warm longer.
• Color Contrast: Add pops of color with bright toppings like diced red onion, yellow corn, or green jalapeños. This creates visual interest and makes the dish more appealing.

5-Ingredient Chili Recipe Tips

To make sure your chili turns out perfect every time, here are some additional tips:

• Make It Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day. If you have time, make your chili a day ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will have had time to meld together, making for an even tastier dish.
• Freeze for Later: This chili freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for later. Just cool the chili completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
• Customize the Heat: Everyone has a different tolerance for spice. Start with a small amount of chili powder and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat in this chili recipe? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work well in this recipe. You can also use a meatless alternative if you’re making a vegetarian chili.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have chili powder? A: If you don’t have chili powder, you can make a substitute by combining cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: How can I thicken my chili if it’s too thin? A: If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Q: What should I do if my chili is too spicy? A: If your chili is too spicy, try adding a bit of sugar, honey, or a squeeze of lime juice to balance out the heat. You can also add more beans or a dairy product like sour cream or cheese to mellow the spice.

Conclusion

This easy 5-ingredient chili recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make a delicious, comforting meal. With just ground beef, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, onions, and chili powder, you can whip up a pot of hearty chili that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or freezing it for later, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a bowl of warm, flavorful chili tonight!

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