Welcome to Hickster’s Kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share one of my favorite go-to recipes: the 7-Ingredient Ground Beef Chili. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and delicious but don’t have the time or energy for a complicated dish. With just seven ingredients, you can whip up a pot of chili that’s sure to warm your soul and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
1 jar of salsa
1 pkg. of chili seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is nicely browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Add Onions

Next, add the chopped onion to the pot with the ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your chili.

3. Season the Mix

Stir in the chili seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute or two, allowing them to release their full aroma and flavor. This step is crucial for building the rich and complex taste of the chili.

4. Add Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, and the drained kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined. The tomatoes add a nice acidity, while the beans provide a hearty texture and protein boost.

5. Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Be sure to give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Serve

Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Pair it with a slice of cornbread or some crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Tips for Customizing Your Chili:

One of the best things about chili is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to make this recipe your own:

Add Vegetables: Throw in some bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice it Up: If you like it hot, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Sweeten the Pot: A touch of dark chocolate or a splash of coffee can add depth and a subtle sweetness.
Make it Smoky: Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a simple yet incredibly satisfying 7-Ingredient Ground Beef Chili recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a game-day gathering, or just a cozy night in, this chili is sure to impress. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

Happy cooking! 🍲🌶️

I’d love to hear how your chili turns out or if you have any favorite additions to this recipe. What do you think you’ll add to make it your own?

Print Recipe

The Ultimate 7-Ingredient Ground Beef Chili Recipe

Course: Soup

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 can 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can 15 ounces diced tomatoes
1 small onion chopped
1 jar of salsa
1 pkg. of chili seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is nicely browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot with the ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your chili.
Stir in the chili seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute or two, allowing them to release their full aroma and flavor. This step is crucial for building the rich and complex taste of the chili.
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, and the drained kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined. The tomatoes add a nice acidity, while the beans provide a hearty texture and protein boost.
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Be sure to give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Pair it with a slice of cornbread or some crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.