Hearty Beef and Kidney Bean Chili
This hearty beef and kidney bean chili is a perfect meal prep dinner recipe, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that’s even better the next day. You’ll love how easily this flavorful dish comes together, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. Ground turkey or a plant-based crumble works well as a substitute.
- Kidney Beans: Red kidney beans are classic, but you can swap them for black beans or pinto beans.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a good alternative if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Chili Powder & Cumin: Essential for that classic chili flavor. Don’t skip these!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Liquids and Spices
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can simmer it longer for an even richer taste.
4. Taste and Serve
Taste your chili and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more salt, pepper, or a pinch more chili powder. Serve hot with your favorite toppings. This is a fantastic meal prep dinner recipe you’ll enjoy all week.
Variation Ideas
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini along with the onion for extra nutrition.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of liquid smoke can enhance the depth of flavor.
- Spice It Up: For more heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch more cayenne pepper.
- Sweet Touch: A teaspoon of sugar or a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage Instructions
This hearty beef and kidney bean chili is perfect for meal prep. Store leftover chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What are good toppings for this chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Is this chili spicy?
The base recipe has a mild warmth. If you want more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño.
Can you prepare this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to deepen and meld. It’s an excellent meal prep dinner recipe.
How do you thicken chili if it’s too thin?
You can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering chili.
Can you use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is an excellent and leaner substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Follow the same cooking instructions.
