Description
This 5-Minute Chili Prep recipe is perfect for quick cozy dinners. Using pantry staples, it’s hearty, flavorful, and simmers while you relax.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or 1½ cups cooked lentils
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) beans (black, pinto, or kidney), drained
1/2 cup broth or water
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp oil for sautéing
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté for 2 minutes.
3. Add ground beef (or lentils) and cook for 3 minutes until browned.
4. Stir in all spices.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, beans, and broth.
6. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
Chili thickens as it rests—reheat with a splash of broth.
Freeze in batches for easy weeknight dinners.
Add hot sauce or jalapeños for more heat.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: 5-minute chili, cozy chili dinner, easy chili recipe