Name: Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or sausage: This forms the hearty base of the chili. You can use ground beef for a classic flavor or sausage for a slightly spicier kick.; 1 white or yellow onion, chopped: Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the chili.; 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of aromatic warmth.; 15 oz diced tomatoes: These tomatoes provide a tangy, juicy component that balances the richness of the meat.; 30 oz chili with beans: This pre-made chili adds body and texture, making the recipe incredibly easy while still delivering a robust flavor.

Chili is a comfort food classic, perfect for those days when you want something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or when you need to whip up a quick meal that everyone will love. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe

This chili recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just someone who wants a hassle-free dinner, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Here’s why:

Simplicity: With only five main ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
Quick Preparation: You can have this chili on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute dinners.
Customizable: While the base recipe is delicious as-is, it’s also easy to adapt with your favorite add-ins or toppings.
Family-Friendly: This mild chili is perfect for all ages, but you can easily adjust the heat to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe, you’ll need the following:

1 lb ground beef or sausage: This forms the hearty base of the chili. You can use ground beef for a classic flavor or sausage for a slightly spicier kick.
1 white or yellow onion, chopped: Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the chili.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of aromatic warmth.
15 oz diced tomatoes: These tomatoes provide a tangy, juicy component that balances the richness of the meat.
30 oz chili with beans: This pre-made chili adds body and texture, making the recipe incredibly easy while still delivering a robust flavor.

How to Make This 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create a warm and satisfying bowl of chili:

Cook the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until it is no longer pink. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
Add Onion and Garlic: Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. If your mixture seems too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to help sauté the vegetables.
Incorporate Tomatoes and Chili: Pour in the diced tomatoes and the can of chili with beans. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board and knife for chopping onions and mincing garlic
Can opener for the diced tomatoes and chili with beans
Ladle for serving

Tips for Perfect 5 Ingredient Chili

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, as it can have a bitter aftertaste.
Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer ensures the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.
Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Conversely, if you like it soupier, you can add a bit of beef broth or water.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Meat: Cook the ground beef or sausage just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat.
Skipping the Sauté: Cooking the onions and garlic in the same skillet as the meat infuses the chili with more flavor. Don’t rush this step.
Not Tasting Before Serving: Always taste your chili before serving to adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce to balance the flavors.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving this chili, the possibilities are endless:

Classic Bowl: Serve the chili in deep bowls, topped with shredded cheddar cheese. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions for extra flavor.
Chili Bar: Set up a chili bar with a variety of toppings like chopped onions, jalapeños, avocado slices, and tortilla chips, allowing everyone to customize their bowl.
Chili Dogs: Spoon the chili over hot dogs for a fun and filling meal. Top with cheese and serve with fries or a salad.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Chili is one of those dishes that often tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigeration: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: If you have more than you can eat within a few days, freeze the chili in individual portions. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the chili in a pot over medium heat until hot. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef or sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans.
Spicier Chili: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the onion and garlic for extra heat.
Different Meats: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile.

Pairings to Complement Your Chili

While this chili is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, here are some sides that pair well:

Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the chili perfectly.
Salad: A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
Baked Potatoes: Serve the chili over baked potatoes for a satisfying twist.

FAQ: Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? Yes, you can. Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe doubles well if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers.

What can I use instead of chili with beans? You can use a can of plain beans (like kidney or pinto) and a can of tomato sauce instead. You may need to add chili powder and cumin to taste.

Conclusion

This Easy 5 Ingredient Chili Recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights or whenever you need a quick, comforting meal. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a dish that anyone can make and enjoy. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. If you loved this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more easy and delicious meal ideas!