Skillet Chili
A hearty skillet chili with savory beef, beans, and tomatoes, seasoned with chili powder and cumin—perfect for a quick, flavorful meal anytime. Suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger with chopped onion and garlic powder in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add pinto beans, tomato sauce, chopped tomatoes, chili powder, and ground cumin to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you're out of pinto beans, black beans or kidney beans can be excellent substitutes. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference, and if you like a bit of sweetness, a tablespoon of brown sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Skillet chili is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for added crunch. Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. It also makes a hearty filling for burritos or taco bowls, making it a versatile option for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. This chili also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Chili contains roughly 661 calories, with 26g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (88% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg per serving (39% 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?
Yes! Simply replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat substitute or increase the amount of beans and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also enhance the flavors with extra spices and herbs to compensate for the missing meat.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili turns out too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few additional minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to achieve your desired consistency.
What can I serve with skillet chili?
This skillet chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, rice, or baked potatoes. For a complete meal, you can offer sides like garlic bread or even a creamy coleslaw to complement the dish's flavors.
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).