Easy Quick Chili
A quick and hearty chili with savory ground beef, kidney beans, and tomato flavor, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the remaining ingredients: taco seasoning, kidney beans, Italian tomato soup, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions and bell peppers with the ground beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans. This chili can be customized to suit your taste by adding spices or vegetables you enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this quick chili with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra richness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. Consider adding a side salad for freshness or some avocado slices for creaminess. You can also use it as a hearty filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and it will last for about 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water if it appears too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Quick Chili contains roughly 435 calories, with 24g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply prepare it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce during cooking. You can also top your chili with sliced fresh peppers or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes when serving.
Is it possible to make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef first, then transfer it to a slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).