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Delicious easy one pot chili simmering in a pot with beans and vegetables.
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One Pot Chili

A thick and cozy chili that can be made in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Friendly, One Pot Chili, Quick Meal
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey Use for the base protein

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional but recommended
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • to taste pepper

Tomatoes and Beans

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste For depth of flavor
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 to 15 ounces)
  • 2 cans beans, drained (kidney, black, or pinto)

Liquid

  • 1-1.5 cups broth or water Adjust for thickness

Instructions

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned.

Cooking

  • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and tomato paste, cooking for about 30 seconds.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beans, and broth or water into the pot.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Taste and adjust salt and spicy seasonings as desired.

Notes

For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. For a thinner chili, add more broth. Customize with your favorite toppings and serve with warm tortillas or cornbread. Chili freezes well for future meals.