3-Ingredient Emergency Chili – Ready in 20 Minutes

We’ve all had those nights: the fridge is nearly empty, everyone’s hungry, and you’re out of time. That’s when this 3-Ingredient Emergency Chili comes to the rescue. Made with just ground beef, salsa, and canned chili beans, it’s hearty, flavorful, and lightning fast. No chopping, no stress, and best of all—no one will guess it only took 20 minutes.

Why This Recipe is a Lifesaver

This chili is ideal for weeknights, lazy weekends, or when the grocery trip just didn’t happen. It’s built entirely from long-lasting, pantry-friendly ingredients and still delivers all the comfort you expect from a slow-simmered dish.

Perfect for Busy Lives

If you’ve ever come home exhausted, stared at a pantry, and wondered what you could make fast—this is it. It’s a real dinner, not just a snack or fallback. With a pound of ground beef, a jar of chunky salsa, and a can of chili beans, you’ve got something delicious and satisfying in minutes.

Kid-Approved and Customizable

It’s not just easy—it’s versatile. The mild spice is great for kids, but you can crank up the heat with a hot salsa or a pinch of chili powder. Top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips and it tastes like something far fancier.

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The Only 3 Ingredients You Need

• 1 lb ground beef – You can sub with ground turkey or even plant-based meat.
• 1 (16 oz) jar chunky salsa – Choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your taste.
• 1 (15 oz) can chili beans – Includes beans in seasoned sauce. No need to drain.

How to Make It in Just 20 Minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it up as it cooks. This takes about 5–7 minutes.
2. Dump and Stir: Add the salsa and chili beans (including sauce) directly to the beef. Stir everything together well.
3. Simmer and Serve: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili bubble gently for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally. That’s it!

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Tortilla chips or cornbread
• Diced avocado or green onions

Flavor Upgrades

Spice It Up

Want a little more kick? Add ½ tsp of smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce during the simmer step.

Go Veggie

Swap beef with a can of black beans or a veggie meat alternative and you’ve got a vegetarian version in the same time. You can even throw in frozen corn or canned green chiles for extra variety.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove and add your favorite toppings again.

What to Serve It With

Even though it’s just 3 ingredients, this chili goes great with a few simple sides:

• Bagged salad for a quick veggie boost
• Cornbread muffins or crackers
• Grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting pairing

Similar Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more quick and satisfying chili ideas? Check out these reader favorites:

• Need something just as fast but with more flavor layers? Try our Quick & Easy Classic Chili Recipe – Done in 30 Minutes.
• Want to go meatier with pantry staples? You’ll love the Best Beef Chili Recipe with Pantry Ingredients.
• Prefer a one-pot cozy dinner? Don’t miss the One‑Pot Hearty Chili Recipe.
• For deeper, slow-simmered flavor, our Hearty Ground Beef Chili Recipe will hit the spot.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Emergency Chili is proof that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re rushing between tasks, skipping a grocery run, or just craving something warm in a hurry, this recipe delivers. Keep a jar of salsa and a can of beans in your pantry, and you’re never more than 20 minutes away from a bowl of comfort.