Why Make This Recipe
Chili beans are warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in. Plus, it allows you to use simple ingredients that are often found in your pantry.
How to Make Chili Beans
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.
- Add the kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Chili Beans
Chili beans are great on their own or served with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado. You can also serve them with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal.
How to Store Chili Beans
If you have leftovers, let the chili cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Chili Beans
- For a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute the ground meat for a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a vegetarian option.
- Letting the chili sit for a day in the fridge can enhance the flavors.
Variation
Feel free to mix in different beans like pinto or navy beans, or add corn for a touch of sweetness. You can also experiment with various spices like smoked paprika or oregano for different flavor profiles.
FAQs
1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Is this chili recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the canned ingredients do not have added gluten. Always check labels to be safe.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. Just use a bigger pot and increase cooking times slightly if needed.
Chili Beans
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Warm and comforting chili beans perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, made with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.
- Add the kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For added spice, include diced jalapeños. Can also use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.