30 Minute Ground Beef Chili

Craving hearty chili with ground beef? This quick-fix 30-Minute Ground Beef Chili has you covered! Perfect for a busy weeknight when you need something warm, comforting and lots of flavor in just half an hour!

Chili is the ultimate comfort food that can be made in so many different ways. Traditional chili is typically made with ground meat (such as beef or pork), chili peppers, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices and seasonings. This recipe takes this classic to the next level with the perfect blend of spices and a secret ingredient that’ll have you coming back for more. 

One of the best things about this recipe is that you don’t need to be a chef to make it. Even home cooks like me enjoy the simplicity of an easy beef recipe. Simply sauté onions, peppers, and garlic, then brown the ground beef with spices. Add beans, tomatoes, broth, and simmer, finishing with a zesty squeeze of lime. In just 30 minutes, you’ve got a mouthwatering ground beef chili ready to enjoy.

Whether you’re hosting a game night at the house, seeking a quick family dinner, or simply craving a hearty meal, chili with ground beef is your go-to option. And when it comes to toppings, the sky’s the limit – think shredded cheddar, creamy sour cream, crunchy tortilla chips, and creamy avocado so everyone can make it their own!

If you enjoy making this beef chili recipe, you gotta try my Vegetarian Pumpkin Chili, Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Chicken Chili, or 30 Minute Ground Turkey and White Bean Chili. 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• You’ll love this recipe for its incredible speed – in just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty, flavor-packed chili that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
• It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
• The blend of spices, including a hint of cinnamon, adds a unique twist to the traditional chili, creating a blend of flavors that work well together. 
• With the flexibility to customize your toppings, from gooey melted cheddar to creamy avocado, you can create a chili masterpiece tailored to your cravings every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, infusing the base of the chili with a rich, savory flavor. 
• Onion and Garlic – These aromatic ingredients provide a strong and fragrant foundation for the chili. 
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds a sweet and slightly smoky flavor, as well as a vibrant color, contributing to the overall complexity of the dish. 
• Ground Beef – The star of the show, ground beef brings a robust meaty taste to the chili.
• Chili Seasoning (salt, chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, cinnamon) – This spice blend brings the signature chili flavor, with the salt for seasoning, chili powder and cumin for heat and depth, dried oregano for herbal notes, red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, and a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist. 
• Tomato Paste – Adds thickness and intensifies the tomato flavor in the chili, providing a rich and savory backdrop. 
• Canned Diced Tomatoes – Provide a burst of tomato goodness and contribute to the chili’s chunky texture and juicy base. 
• Low Sodium Beef Broth – Beef broth not only enhances the meaty flavor but also provides a liquid base for the chili, ensuring the right consistency. 
• Red Kidney Beans and Pinto Beans – These canned beans add creaminess and substance to the chili.
• Lime – The juice of lime adds a zesty, tangy kick that brightens up the overall flavor profile of the chili, balancing the richness of the meat and spices.

How To Make Ground Beef Chili in 30 Minutes

Saute the vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium-high. Then, add the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onion, bell pepper, and a pinch of salt. Saute for 3-5 minutes to soften, then mix in the garlic and cook for an additional minute. 

Cook and season the ground beef: To the pot with the vegetables, add the ground beef. Sprinkle on the dry seasonings, then break up the meat with a spatula, cooking for 5-7 minutes. 

Add remaining ingredients: To the pot with the beef and vegetables, add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, kidney beans, and pinto beans, and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the juice of one fresh lime. 

Garnish and serve: Ladle the hot chili into serving bowls and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy! 

Recipe Tips

• For a smokier note, roast the red bell pepper in the oven before dicing and adding it to the chili, peeling off the skin for a richer taste.
• Take your time when browning the ground beef; allowing it to develop a good sear will infuse the chili with deeper, caramelized flavors.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference – if you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes in the seasoning blend.
• Ensure the tomato paste is thoroughly mixed into the mixture to evenly distribute its concentrated flavor.
• If low on beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth without compromising the taste.
• To achieve a thicker consistency, simmer the chili uncovered for a bit longer, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness.
• To prevent beans from becoming mushy, add them towards the end of the simmering process, about 5 minutes before the chili is ready.
• For a burst of freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro; it beautifully complements the chili’s flavors.

Variations

• Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or diced tofu for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Experiment with different types of beans, like black beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas.
• For a sweet and savory twist, toss in diced sweet potatoes during the simmering process.
• Try adding in a can of corn kernels, diced green chilies, and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro. 
• Elevate the tomato flavor by using fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Their smoky undertones will add an extra layer of depth to your chili.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: To store your leftover chili, allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before enjoying.

Freezing: For freezing, ladle your chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.

FAQ

What is the minimum time to cook chili?

The minimum cooking time for chili is about 30 minutes, as our recipe suggests. However, you can let it simmer longer to deepen the flavors if you have the time. 

Do you cook the ground beef first for chili?

Yes, it’s essential to cook the ground beef first. Browning the meat not only ensures it’s fully cooked but also adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the chili as it simmers.

Does chili get better the longer it cooks?

Yes, chili often improves with longer cooking times. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a more robust and flavorful dish. If you have the time, consider letting it simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes for even better results.

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