Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This baked bean chilli recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal prep time, and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best – simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious. It's one of those best recipes that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans in tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, baked beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and thicken: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a truly delicious dish.
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Serve: Ladle the chilli into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Bean Chilli:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder chilli, omit it altogether, or use a smaller amount. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Add some depth: For a deeper, smokier flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chipotle powder in adittion to the chili powder.
- Make it meatier: Brown some ground beef or turkey before adding the onions to create a heartier chilli. This is a great way to add extra protein to your meal.
- Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker chilli, simmer it uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also blend a portion of the chilli with an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chilli: Omit the meat, and add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- White Bean Chilli: Substitute cannellini beans or great northern beans for the kidney beans and pinto beans.
- Slow Cooker Chilli: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This baked bean chilli recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that's also incredibly flavorful and easy to make. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights and a delicious dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!