Simple Four Ingredient Chili Recipe

If you need an easy dinner that's hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy nights, this Simple Four Ingredient Chili is a great one to keep on repeat. It uses just a few pantry staples, comes together quickly, and still delivers that warm, comforting chili flavor everyone loves.

This is the kind of simple recipe that works well when you need something filling without a long ingredient list. You can keep it extra easy with a packet of chili seasoning, or make your own homemade chili seasoning with spices you probably already have in your cabinet.

If you love simple family dinners, this chili is an easy one to make any night of the week. Looking for more easy family dinners? Check out our Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole and our Cheese and Hashbrown Hamburger Casserole!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Only a few simple ingredients
• Great for busy weeknights
• Easy to customize with toppings
• Budget-friendly and filling
• Works with homemade or store-bought seasoning
• Easy to make on the stovetop or in the slow cooker

Key Ingredients

• Ground beef - I like using lean ground beef so there's less grease to drain.
• Tomato juice - This gives the chili a rich tomato flavor without making it too thick.
• Chili beans- Use a 15 to 16 ounce can.
• Chili seasoning - Or use the homemade chili seasoning below.

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Chopped chives
• Diced onion
• Jalapeños
• Crushed crackers or tortilla chips

Homemade Chili Seasoning Substitute

If you want to skip the store-bought seasoning packet, use this simple blend instead:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Simple Four Ingredient Homemade Chili

1. Step 1: Brown the beef.
   Add the ground beef to a large pot or Dutch oven and cook over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.

2. Step 2: Add the remaining ingredients.
   Stir in the tomato juice, chili beans, and either the packet of chili seasoning or the homemade seasoning mixture.

3. Step 3: Simmer.
   Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

4. Step 4: Serve.
   Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, onion, chives, or your favorite chili toppings.

Slow Cooker Instructions

• Brown the ground beef first and drain the grease.
• Add the cooked beef, tomato juice, chili beans, and seasoning to the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir before serving and add toppings.

Expert Tips

• Start with 2 cups tomato juice. This is a good consistency for a classic chili that's not too thick or too soupy.
• For thicker chili, reduce the tomato juice to 1 ½ cups.
• For thinner chili, add an extra ¼ to ½ cup tomato juice at the end.
• Taste before serving. If it tastes flat, add a little extra salt.
• Let it simmer uncovered if you want it to thicken more.
• Use lean beef for the best texture and less grease.

FAQs

Storage And Freezing Instructions

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

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