Quick And Easy Skillet Chili
A hearty and flavorful skillet chili that's quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and a savory tomato sauce, it offers bold flavors with minimal effort. Great for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish provides warmth and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef until no pink remains.
- Add kidney beans, tomato sauce, onion flakes, salt, and water to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to develop flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use canned kidney beans and pre-diced onions. If you prefer turkey or chicken, those ground meats work well as substitutes for the beef. Feel free to add spices like cumin or chili powder for extra flavor. This dish can also be enhanced with bell peppers or corn for added texture. If you enjoy beef recipes, check out Beef-Rice Creole for another hearty option.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet chili is perfect served with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. Top it with shredded cheese, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Barbecups for a fun twist on traditional chili dishes. For a side, consider a fresh salad to balance the hearty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Skillet Chili contains roughly 8 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein. Use vegetable broth instead of water and consider adding more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. This makes it a great option for anyone looking for a meatless meal.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference, starting with a small amount and increasing gradually. This will give your chili a nice kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
What can I serve with skillet chili?
Skillet chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of fluffy rice. You can also offer toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to enhance the dish. A side of coleslaw or a simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
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).