Are you craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This chili recipe with taco seasoning is a delicious and versatile dish perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together quickly, making it a fantastic option for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and healthy meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly easy!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, for a leaner option)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious flavor base for your chili.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Using ground turkey instead of beef is a great way to make this a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, pinto beans, taco seasoning, beef broth, and chili powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious chili hot, topped with your favorite fixings. Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, some fresh chopped onions, and a sprinkle of cilantro are all excellent choices. This hearty chili is a complete meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace the ground beef with 1 (15-ounce) can of vegetarian chili beans or 2 cups of cooked lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Slow Cooker Chili: For an even easier option, brown the beef (or skip this step for vegetarian), then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it thicker: If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before adding the broth.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy chili recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a budget-friendly and satisfying dish the whole family will love! Enjoy!