Are you craving a hearty, flavorful chili but short on time? This chili recipe using canned beans is your answer! It's a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Forget complicated recipes and long cooking times; this recipe delivers big on taste without sacrificing convenience. It's the ultimate comfort food, ideal for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 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 black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for garnish, optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Meat
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Add the Spices and Liquids
Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate the Beans
Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans to the pot. Stir well to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides like cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- For a deeper flavor: Consider roasting the peppers before adding them to the chili.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground meat and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or extra beans for a hearty vegetarian chili.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe is easily adaptable to a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- White Chicken Chili: Substitute ground chicken for the beef and add a can of diced green chilies and corn.
- Beef and Bean Chili: Simply omit the pinto and black beans and increase the amount of kidney beans.
- Spicy Chili: Add a few jalapeños or serrano peppers for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
This easy chili recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavor and protein, making it a healthy and delicious choice for the whole family. Enjoy!