How do I make chili seasoning?

Many chili recipes call for a premixed chili seasoning, but I've made up my own for this particular recipe, as it's made with really basic ingredients that you probably already have. You can also easily customize the seasonings depending on your preferences. Like your homemade chili spicy? Add some more cayenne, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce. Prefer a hint of cinnamon? Add it! Like it smokey? Add some canned chipotle peppers in adobo.

Why is there marinara sauce in your chili?

I love using marinara sauce in my soups and chilis! It all started with this easy minestrone soup , and now I'm hooked. It gives soups and chili a really rich flavor, so much more than regular diced tomatoes. Plus, I've come to prefer the smooth and velvety texture it adds. We also add in a can of tomatoes, so you still get some texture in there.

What should I do with leftover chili?

Leftover beef chili recipes are a fantastic lunch or dinner simply reheated, but if you would like to turn it into something different, try it on chili dip, layered into tortillas with cheese for chili quesadillas, or spread over tortilla chips and topped with cheese for a hearty pan of nachos.

Easy Chili Recipe (Ready in 30 Minutes with Simple Ingredients!)

Name: Easy Chili Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 cup diced white onion; 2 lbs. ground beef (80% lean); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp. salt; 2 tsp. cumi; 1 tsp. paprika; 1 tsp. oregano; 1 tsp. garlic powder; 1/4–1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper; 26 oz. jar garlic marinara (plain marinara); 14.5 oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 15.5 oz. can black beans (rinsed and drained); 15.5 oz. can kidney beans (rinsed and drained); 1 cup bone broth (chicken, beef, or regular broth); toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, chopped onion

Description

This easy chili recipe is perfect comfort food! Ready in 30 minutes with ground beef, beans, and pantry staples for a hearty, family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 cup diced white onion
2 lbs. ground beef (80% lean)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cumi
1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/4-1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
26 oz. jar garlic marinara (plain marinara)
14.5 oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
15.5 oz. can black beans (rinsed and drained)
15.5 oz. can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
1 cup bone broth (chicken, beef, or regular broth)
toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, chopped onion

Instructions

Heat oil in Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. When oil shimmers, add onions, and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Add ground beef and garlic to pot and break up beef a bit with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle seasonings over ground beef, stir to combine, and cook for about 5 minutes.
Add marinara, tomatoes (don’t drain), beans, and broth to the beef mixture. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for at least 15 minutes or longer.
Season with salt to taste and serve with plenty of toppings.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Freezer storage: Freeze portions into souper cubes (don’t forget to label!) and store in a freezer bag or container for 2-3 months.
Ingredient notes: Instead of seasonings, you can use 1 1/2-2 tablespoons of chili powder. Add salt to taste. Be sure that your marinara sauce is a plainer version, and not one with Italian flavors. Bone broth helps add a really deep and rich flavor, but regular broth works too.
Prep ahead: Make a full batch on weekends and reheat portions throughout the week for easy meals.
Helpful tools: A heavy-bottomed pot distributes heat evenly and prevents burning on the bottom.
Serve with: Cornbread, baked potatoes, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete, satisfying meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/4 cup