Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe

Looking for a simple, delicious meal that can be made with minimal ingredients? This easy 5 ingredient chili recipe is exactly what you need! Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, this chili is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Read on to discover how to make this mouth-watering chili and why it’s a recipe you'll come back to again and again.

What is Chili?

Chili, short for chili con carne, is a traditional American dish that has become a beloved comfort food across the country. The dish is typically made with ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a mix of spices, simmered together to create a rich and flavorful stew. While there are countless variations of chili, ranging from mild to fiery hot, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a go-to meal for many families. This easy 5 ingredient chili recipe is a simplified version that doesn’t skimp on taste, making it perfect for quick meals without the hassle.

Ingredients List for Easy 5 Ingredient Chili

To get started on this easy chili recipe, you’ll need just five simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry:

1. 1 lb ground beef or sausage: The base of any good chili is the meat, and in this case, ground beef or sausage provides a hearty and flavorful foundation. If you prefer, you can even mix the two for a combination of flavors.
2. 1 white or yellow onion, chopped: Onions add a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the chili. Both white and yellow onions work well in this recipe.
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the chili. Fresh minced garlic is ideal, but you can substitute with garlic powder if needed.
4. 15 oz diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring a tangy, juicy element to the chili, balancing the richness of the meat and spices.
5. 30 oz chili with beans: This is the star ingredient that makes this recipe so easy. Using canned chili with beans not only saves time but also adds a thick, hearty texture to the dish.

Additional Ingredient Suggestions

While this recipe is perfectly delicious with just five ingredients, you can easily customize it with a few additional items to suit your taste. Here are a few suggestions:

• Cheddar cheese, shredded, for topping: Melted cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and a sharp flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chili.
• Olive oil: If your meat doesn’t release enough fat, a bit of olive oil can help sauté the onions and garlic to perfection.
• Red bell peppers: Add some chopped red bell peppers to the onion-garlic mixture for extra crunch and a slight sweetness.
• Kidney beans or black beans: For extra protein and texture, consider adding a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans.
• Chili powder or garlic powder: Enhance the flavor with additional spices like chili powder or garlic powder.
• Diced roasted green chilies: For an added kick, throw in a can of diced roasted green chilies.
• Tomato sauce or tomato juice: A 15-ounce can of tomato sauce or 8-10 ounces of tomato juice will add a deeper, richer tomato flavor to your chili.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about chili is how adaptable it is. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

Meat Substitutes

• Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter option, substitute the ground beef or sausage with ground turkey or chicken. These meats have a milder flavor but will still create a delicious chili.
• Plant-based crumbles: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat alternatives. These crumbles mimic the texture of ground beef and work perfectly in chili.

Bean Variations

• Pinto beans: Swap out the chili with beans for a can of pinto beans to create a different texture and flavor profile.
• No beans: Prefer your chili without beans? You can omit them altogether or add more meat or vegetables instead.

Flavor Enhancers

• Spicy chili: If you like your chili with a kick, add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño.
• Sweet chili: For a hint of sweetness, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Smoky flavor: To give your chili a smoky depth, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this easy 5 ingredient chili? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage to the pan. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the meat is fully cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them in the rendered fat from the meat. If the pan seems too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Chili

Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and the canned chili with beans. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to help the flavors meld together. If you have more time, you can simmer the chili for longer to deepen the flavors even further.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chili is ready, ladle it into serving bowls. If you like, top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this easy 5 ingredient chili, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:

• Overcooking the meat: Be careful not to overcook the ground beef or sausage. Once it’s no longer pink, it’s ready for the next step. Overcooking can make the meat tough and dry.
• Skipping the sauté: Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic. This step is crucial for developing the flavor base of your chili.
• Not simmering long enough: While this recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes, allowing the chili to simmer for longer will enhance the flavors. If you have time, let it simmer for 30-45 minutes.
• Forgetting to stir: Stir the chili occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.
• Not tasting before serving: Always taste your chili before serving. This gives you the chance to adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your chili is ready, let’s talk about how to serve and present it to make the meal even more enjoyable.

How to Serve Easy 5 Ingredient Chili

Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

• In a bowl: The classic way to serve chili is in a bowl, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
• Over rice: For a heartier meal, serve the chili over a bed of steamed rice. This is a great way to stretch the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd.
• With cornbread: Pair your chili with a slice of warm cornbread on the side. The slightly sweet flavor of the cornbread complements the savory chili perfectly.
• In a bread bowl: For a fun twist, serve your chili in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The bread soaks up the flavors of the chili, making every bite delicious.
• As a topping: Use the chili as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or hot dogs for a quick and satisfying meal.

Presentation Ideas for Easy 5 Ingredient Chili

Presentation can make a big difference in how your dish is received. Here are some ideas to make your chili look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish with colorful toppings: Add a pop of color by garnishing your chili with chopped fresh herbs, diced avocado, or sliced jalapeños.
• Serve in vibrant bowls: Use bright, colorful bowls to make the chili stand out on the table.
• Add texture: Sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or crispy bacon bits on top for added texture.
• Family-style serving: If you’re serving a crowd, consider serving the chili in a large pot or Dutch oven on the table with a variety of toppings in small bowls, so everyone can customize their bowl.

Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe Tips

To ensure your chili is a success, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and high-quality meat will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your chili.
• Don’t rush the simmering process: While the chili can be ready in 20 minutes, letting it simmer for longer will develop deeper flavors.
• Season to taste: Always taste your chili before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your chance to add more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
• Customize to your liking: Don’t be afraid to get creative with additional ingredients or garnishes to make the chili your own.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this chili in advance? A: Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Q: Can I freeze the chili? A: Absolutely. Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can. After browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes and canned chili, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: What if I don’t have canned chili with beans? A: If you don’t have canned chili with beans, you can use canned kidney beans or black beans and add your favorite chili seasoning mix or spices to taste.

Q: Is this chili spicy? A: This recipe is mild as written, but you can easily make it spicier by adding hot sauce, chili powder, or fresh chili peppers.

Conclusion

This easy 5 ingredient chili recipe is the perfect solution for those nights when you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a pot of hearty, flavorful chili that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or just as a comforting meal for yourself, this chili is sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious chili today!

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