Craving a comforting, hearty meal but short on time? You’re not alone! Weeknights can be hectic, and the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m so excited to share this incredibly easy and delicious 5-ingredient chili recipe with you. Seriously, just FIVE ingredients! This chili is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend lunch. It’s packed with flavor, surprisingly filling, and ready in under 30 minutes. Forget complicated recipes with a million ingredients – this one is all about simplicity and maximum taste. Let’s get cooking! ## Why You’ll Love This 5-Ingredient Chili This isn’t your average watered-down chili. This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons: Quick & Easy: As mentioned, it only requires 5 ingredients and minimal prep time. Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are affordable and readily available. Customizable: You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences (more on that later!). Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful and comforting chili. Minimal Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean fewer dishes to wash! ## The Star Ingredients Let’s break down the five essential ingredients that make this chili so amazing: 1. Ground Beef (or Turkey): This provides the protein and hearty base for the chili. You can use lean ground beef, ground turkey, or even a plant-based alternative. 2. Canned Diced Tomatoes: Adds the essential tomato flavor and acidity. Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of smokiness. 3. Canned Chili Beans: These are pre-seasoned and packed with flavor, making them a shortcut to deliciousness. You can use dark red kidney beans, pinto beans, or a combination. 4. Chili Seasoning: A pre-made blend of spices that adds warmth and complexity to the chili. Look for a blend that contains chili powder, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. 5. Tomato Sauce: This helps to thicken the chili and enhance the tomato flavor. ## How to Make 5-Ingredient Chili: Step-by-Step Making this chili is incredibly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide: 1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. 2. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), canned chili beans (undrained), chili seasoning, and tomato sauce to the pot. 3. Simmer: Stir everything together well. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. 4. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. ## Chili Topping Ideas & Variations The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some ideas to customize your chili: Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips, a squeeze of lime juice, a dollop of Greek yogurt. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño to the chili while it’s simmering. Add Veggies: Stir in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or corn along with the other ingredients. Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a can of black beans or kidney beans. Slow Cooker Option: Brown the meat as instructed, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. ## Tips for the Best 5-Ingredient Chili Don’t Skimp on the Chili Seasoning: It’s the key to the chili’s flavor. Use a good quality chili seasoning blend, or make your own. Simmer Time Matters: The longer the chili simmers, the better the flavors will develop. If you have the time, let it simmer for at least an hour. * Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, use less seasoning. If you like it spicy, add more. This 5-ingredient chili recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples. So next time you’re craving a comforting meal, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed! Save this guide for later! Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest, so you can easily find it when you need a quick and easy dinner idea. Enjoy!
