Easy 5-Ingredient Chili Recipe

Name: Easy 5-Ingredient Chili
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained (dark or light); 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans, undrained; 5 tablespoons chili powder, or more to taste; salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 generous servings. Ingredient quantities can be scaled up or down, but cooking times and steps remain consistent. Note that scaling may slightly affect texture and consistency.

1 pound lean ground beef
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15-ounce) can chili beans, undrained
2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Stir frequently, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the kidney beans, chili beans (with liquid), and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Sprinkle in the chili powder and stir well. Reduce heat to a low simmer, allowing the chili to thicken while stirring occasionally, approximately 15 minutes.
Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that canned beans and tomato sauce contain varying amounts of salt, so adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor.

Editor's Note

Because canned ingredients often contain salt, taste your chili after it has simmered before adding additional salt. This ensures a balanced, flavorful dish without over-seasoning.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 368
Fat: 12g (15% DV)
Saturated Fat: 4g (20% DV)
Cholesterol: 67mg (22% DV)
Sodium: 1299mg (56% DV)
Carbohydrates: 35g (13% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 10g (37% DV)
Total Sugars: 10g
Protein: 33g (65% DV)
Vitamin C: 7mg (8% DV)
Calcium: 107mg (8% DV)
Iron: 7mg (37% DV)
Potassium: 1201mg (26% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

**Nutrient information is based on available data and may not include all ingredients. Consult a dietitian if you are following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Easy 5-Ingredient Chili

Chili has long been a symbol of comfort food in American cuisine, tracing its roots to the southwestern United States, particularly Texas. Originally known as chili con carne meaning chili with meat in Spanish it was popularized in the late 19th century by Mexican and Texan cooks who combined local ingredients like beef, chili peppers, and beans into a hearty, warming stew. Over the years, chili evolved into countless variations, from bean-heavy versions to spicy Tex-Mex interpretations. This easy 5-ingredient chili simplifies the tradition, keeping the flavors authentic while making preparation accessible for busy households.

Regional Variations

While chili is enjoyed across the United States, regional differences are notable. Texas chili, for example, often avoids beans entirely, focusing on beef and chili peppers for a more intense flavor, whereas Midwestern versions tend to be thicker, slightly sweeter, and include a mix of beans. This 5-ingredient chili aligns more with the Midwestern style, combining ground beef, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and chili beans to create a balanced, rich, and slightly tangy dish that remains approachable for a wide audience.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike other stews or soups, this chili emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Compared to complex chili recipes that require a dozen or more spices, this version relies primarily on chili powder to deliver its signature warmth. The inclusion of both kidney beans and chili beans provides texture and depth, distinguishing it from single-bean recipes. Unlike soups, it is thick enough to be eaten on its own or served over rice, pasta, or hot dogs, making it versatile for family meals and casual gatherings.

Where Its Commonly Served

This easy chili is a staple at potlucks, weeknight dinners, and casual events like game-day parties. It pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even baked potatoes. Some families use it as a topping for chili dogs or chili mac, expanding its presence beyond the bowl. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it a go-to choice when feeding a crowd or creating a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Interesting Facts

The first chili parlors appeared in San Antonio in the late 1800s, making it one of the earliest commercially sold Tex-Mex dishes.
Chili has inspired an annual competition culture, with events like the Terlingua International Chili Championship in Texas attracting chefs from around the world.
Despite its name, many chili recipes, especially in Texas, omit beans entirely a fact often debated among chili purists.
This 5-ingredient version demonstrates how minimal ingredients can still achieve complex flavors, proving that simplicity often highlights the essence of traditional recipes.
The dishs popularity extends internationally, influencing comfort food menus in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

In essence, Easy 5-Ingredient Chili is a modern, time-saving adaptation of a storied culinary tradition. Its simplicity preserves the comforting warmth and hearty taste of classic chili, making it a versatile dish that honors its origins while fitting seamlessly into contemporary kitchens.

FAQ about Easy 5-Ingredient Chili Recipe

The cooking time for this chili is approximately 20 minutes.

Preparation time is about 5 minutes.

Yes, you can modify the recipe by adding additional ingredients such as garlic, onions, or spices. Some people prefer adding chili powder, paprika, or onion powder to enhance the flavor.

Yes, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute depending on your preference.

If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little water or broth while it simmers. To thicken the chili, cook it longer or use less liquid.

Yes, you can use other types of beans such as pinto beans, black beans, or white beans, depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you use dried beans instead of canned.

The chili can be mildly spicy depending on the amount of chili powder used. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder, or using a milder taco seasoning instead.

This recipe yields 6 servings.

Yes, this chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

You can add different toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions. For a heartier meal, try serving the chili over rice or using it for chili dogs or Frito pie.

Comments

Jessica Allen

09/19/2025 08:08:13 PM

Great chili recipe! Perfect for a quick meal on a hectic day. I especially enjoy chili spaghetti, and this dish with cheese on top is just what I was looking for. Thanks for sharing this delicious recipe!

Benjamin Clark

09/26/2025 08:07:51 PM

This recipe was not only incredibly easy to make, but it was also incredibly delicious. It turned out perfectly on my first try. I adore chili but can't handle any spiciness at all, so chili powder is typically a no-go for me. Additionally, my husband refuses to eat canned chili. I came across a suggestion from multiple people to use mild taco seasoning instead of chili powder (using the same quantities). This alternative worked like a charm and has now become a regular feature in our home. The only adjustment I made was extending the simmering time to 30 minutes as we prefer a thicker chili. I am extremely grateful for this recipe!

Edward Scott

09/19/2025 11:22:07 AM

A fantastic chili recipe that is quick and simple to make. I'll be whipping it up in just a few minutes. With the cold weather settling in, this is exactly what I need. I made a few tweaks by adding a can of V-8 juice for extra richness, throwing in a small chopped onion, and using a taco seasoning mix instead of chili powder for a delicious Tex-Mex flavor.

Elizabeth Young

09/18/2025 10:26:49 AM

I followed the recipe, but I added extra chili powder. It tasted great with cheese, raw onions, mild taco sauce (Red Duck), and a few dashes of Cholula chili garlic sauce on top.

Andrew Miller

09/26/2025 06:34:13 PM

My wife was running late, so the task of preparing the chili fell on my shoulders. While we had all the ingredients on hand, we were missing chili powder. Being a fan of Spiceology herbs and spices, I decided to try their Chili Margarita blend as a substitute. This mix includes chili powder, brown sugar, sea salt, orange peel, cumin, and lime oil. The result was absolutely delightful - a delicious twist to our usual chili recipe!

Catherine Anderson

09/27/2025 02:40:57 PM

This "Chili" recipe was a disappointment. Using lean ground beef was a poor choice as the spices didn't blend well without the fat. A mix of 85% lean and 15% fat would have been better. The lack of cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion made it taste nothing like traditional chili. Overall, this was one of my worst cooking experiences.

Kathleen Turner

09/25/2025 11:31:52 AM

Kudos to using only 5 ingredients and choosing tomato sauce over chunky tomatoes! This chili is rich and thick, making it perfect for chili dogs, Frito pie, and more. If you prefer a soup-like consistency, just add some water without compromising the delicious flavor. Starting with fresh beef sets this apart from canned chili, reducing preservatives significantly. This will be a go-to recipe for me. Thanks for sharing!

Nancy Thompson

09/19/2025 12:09:30 PM

I have been using this recipe for years. It's quick, easy, and delicious. I like to top it with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. A must-have for our family.

Gregory Sanchez

09/21/2025 02:00:26 PM

A fantastic 5-ingredient recipe! I enhanced it with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. It definitely benefited from the extra seasoning, but overall, it turned out delicious for such a simple dish.

James White

09/18/2025 06:52:43 PM

My only complaint is with the kidney beans, but when they were replaced with pintos, it was perfect!

Dorothy Phillips

09/20/2025 08:16:46 PM

Such a simple and delicious recipe! I was unsure if my husband would enjoy it as he's not a big fan of beans, but he ended up loving it and even said it's a keeper! I followed the recipe exactly as written, using Eden Spicy Pintos for the chili beans, and it turned out great. It also worked perfectly for making chili mac. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful recipe!

Deborah Cruz

09/22/2025 04:08:30 PM

I am using a slow cooker and adding onions to make this dish. Unfortunately, the country I reside in does not commonly eat ground beef, so I am making do with the nearest alternative available.

Melissa Rivera

09/20/2025 04:15:16 AM

I included a generous amount of diced onion.

Melissa Walker

09/21/2025 09:08:51 PM

Not too original. I have been making a chili recipe with only six ingredients that my mother also used back in the 1940s. It includes 1 lb of ground beef, 1 medium onion, 2 stalks of celery, 1 19 fl oz tomato juice, 2 15 oz cans of pork and beans, 2 tbsp chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Good chili must have either celery, dark chocolate, or coffee to elevate its taste. Give this recipe a try, and you'll prefer it over others. It's a milder version of traditional chili, and everyone, even the kids who dislike other beans, enjoys it.

Matthew Campbell

09/25/2025 02:48:22 AM

Excellent recipe for a speedy dinner preparation!

Patrick Phillips

09/26/2025 05:17:51 AM

Fantastic recipe for someone new to cooking like myself. While it doesn't quite match up to my mom's version, it is still very tasty and incredibly easy to make!

Kimberly Garcia

09/25/2025 12:13:53 AM

Super simple and super delicious! I wasn't sure if my husband would enjoy it since he's not a big fan of beans, but he absolutely loved it and said it's a definite winner! I followed the recipe as instructed and used Eden Spicy Pintos for the chili beans. I wouldn't make any changes. It also worked perfectly for making chili mac. Thank you for such a fantastic recipe!

Dorothy Gonzalez

09/27/2025 11:47:06 AM

This product is excellent.

Jerry Garcia

09/20/2025 02:19:29 PM

I was pleasantly surprised by this recipe. I didn't anticipate it to be so delicious. The only downside was that it was quite thick, unless you're using it as a topping for hot dogs. I simply added about half a can of water and the issue was resolved. I appreciate how easy and quick this recipe is to make, and I like that it doesn't contain any unnecessary ingredients found in packaged mixes. My husband really enjoyed it and even told me to stop searching for chili recipes because this one is the best!

Cook Time: 35 minutes