One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, I’ve got just the thing for you. This One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe is one of my all-time favorites – it’s beefy, chunky, and you only need one pot to make it, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal! When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how rich and satisfying it was, and since then, it’s become my go-to chili, especially on busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe is in how the ingredients work together to create that perfect chili flavor with no fuss. You’re using pantry staples that come alive with just a handful of spices and a good, rich beefy base.

• Ground beef: I like choosing 80/20 for that perfect fat content which adds richness without being greasy.
• Onion: Diced small, it melts into the beef and adds subtle sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves really bring the flavor up a notch—don’t skip it!
• Kidney beans: Drained and rinsed, they add bulk and that wonderful chili texture.
• Diced tomatoes: The base of the sauce, I usually pick a no-salt-added variety for control over seasoning.
• Tomato paste: A little goes a long way to add thickness and tomato intensity.
• Green chilies: Adds a mild heat and a slightly tangy note that balances the beef.
• Chicken broth: I use broth to add richness; if you need to substitute, water and chicken bouillon powder work in a pinch.
• Chili powder: The heart of the spice mix, be sure you’re using fresh for best flavor.
• Salt: It brightens everything, but start light—you can add more later.
• Cumin: I love the earthy warmth it lends to the chili.
• Dried oregano: A subtle herbaceous touch that complements the spices.
• Cayenne pepper: Gives just a little heat; adjust to taste.
• Hot sauce: For an extra punch, but it’s easy to skip if you want milder chili.
• Sugar: It balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly—trust me on this one.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe is how easy it is to tweak—and you should definitely make it your own! I’ve played around with different meats, added veggies, and even switched up the spice levels depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge.

• Ground turkey or chicken: I’ve used ground turkey to lighten it up, and it still works great when you add enough seasoning.
• Beans swap: Pinto or black beans work well if you want to change the texture or flavor slightly.
• Extra veggies: Sometimes I toss in diced bell peppers or corn for a sweet crunch and extra color.
• Mild to spicy: You can easily adjust the cayenne and hot sauce to dial up the heat for your crew.

How to Make One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown Your Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating your pot over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned—this step is crucial for building flavor. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat before you add your diced onion and crushed garlic. Sauté everything together until the onions become soft and translucent. This little ritual of browning then softening creates that deep flavor base that makes this chili really sing.

Step 2: Add Spices and All the Goodies

Now, sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, hot sauce, and sugar. Give everything a good stir so those spices coat the beef and onions, and you get an aroma that’s positively mouthwatering. Then, stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Mix it together well, and bring the whole pot to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Simmer and Let Flavors Meld

Once boiling, reduce your heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This slow simmer is key—it lets the flavors meld beautifully, and the sauce thickens up just right. I like to stir it every now and then to prevent sticking and make sure everything cooks evenly. By the end, you’ll have a chunky, savory pot of chili that smells like pure comfort.

How to Serve One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this chili with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream—that creamy tang cuts through the richness perfectly. Fresh chopped green onions or cilantro add a pop of color and freshness, which I highly recommend if you want to elevate the presentation. Some crushed tortilla chips or a squeeze of lime juice also add a nice crunch and brightness.

Side Dishes

Classic cornbread is my favorite side to go with this chili—soft, a little sweet, and perfect for soaking up every last drop. You can also serve it with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette pairs wonderfully to balance out the heartiness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little fancy for game day or a casual party, try serving the chili in mini bread bowls—that always impresses! Another fun idea is layering the chili over baked potatoes or rice for a “chili bowl” effect. I once made chili nachos by spooning it over tortilla chips, topping with cheese, and baking until bubbly; my family loved the twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover chili in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When I reheat, I do it gently in a pot on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it from getting too thick. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, so leftovers often taste better the next day!

Freezing

This One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili freezes beautifully. I divide it into meal-sized portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Just be sure not to freeze with sour cream or cheese toppings—add those fresh when you serve.

Reheating

To reheat chili, I like warming it slowly on the stovetop, stirring often and adding a splash of liquid if needed. Microwaving works too—just use short intervals and stir in between to keep the heat even. I always finish with fresh toppings right before serving for best taste and texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this One-Pot Chunky Beef Chili Recipe comes together with such little effort but so much flavor. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and gets even better with leftovers. Whether you’re a chili veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe is really approachable and forgiving, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—I promise your kitchen (and your people) will thank you!

Print