This Easy 5-Ingredient Chili is the perfect meal for when I’m craving something hearty but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. With just five simple ingredients, I can whip up a delicious bowl of chili in no time, making it ideal for a cozy dinner. Plus, the combination of chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning creates a rich and savory flavor that always hits the spot.
Ingredients
1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 package (1 oz) chili seasoning mix
1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional for extra protein)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a large pot, I start by cooking the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned and cooked through, if I’m using it.
I drain any excess fat from the meat, then add the chili beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce to the pot.
I stir in the chili seasoning mix and bring the mixture to a simmer.
After that, I let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and the flavors have blended together.
Finally, I serve the chili hot and top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if I feel like it.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Storage/Reheating
This easy chili stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. If I want to store it for a longer period, I can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, I simply warm it in a pot on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until hot. If it thickens too much during storage, I can always add a splash of water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! If I skip the ground beef or turkey, this chili is naturally vegetarian. The chili beans, tomatoes, and seasoning provide all the flavor I need.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! I can easily swap the ground beef or turkey for other meats, such as chicken, or even go for plant-based meat alternatives if I want to keep it vegetarian or vegan.
Can I adjust the spice level of the chili?
If I prefer a milder chili, I can use a milder chili seasoning mix or reduce the amount of seasoning. For a spicier version, I can add extra chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce to bring up the heat.
How can I make this chili more filling?
If I want to make the chili heartier, I can add in some beans like kidney beans or black beans, or even throw in some corn for a sweet crunch. I can also serve it with cornbread or over rice for a more filling meal.
Can I make this chili recipe ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, chili tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. I can make it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then reheat it when I’m ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Easy 5-Ingredient Chili recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a quick and comforting meal with minimal effort. Whether I’m short on time or just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe has me covered. It’s flavorful, customizable, and easy to make—what’s not to love.
Recipe:
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Easy 5-Ingredient Chili
This Easy 5-Ingredient Chili is a quick and hearty meal perfect for busy days. With only five simple ingredients, this savory chili is both flavorful and customizable. Made with chili beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning, it’s a comforting bowl of warmth ready in just 20 minutes. Optionally add ground beef or turkey for extra protein, or enjoy it vegetarian. Perfect for cozy dinners or last-minute meals!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 package (1 oz) chili seasoning mix
1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chili beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce. Stir in the chili seasoning mix.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions as desired.
Notes
This recipe is naturally vegetarian if you skip the meat.
Add more chili powder or jalapeños for extra heat.
You can store leftovers for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a little water if it thickens.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal
