3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (1)

Jamielyn Nye
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This 3-ingredient easy chili recipe is made in 30 minutes or less! Thick, hearty, and filled with flavor. This is the perfect easy soup recipe for fall!

We love serving it with warm cornbread muffinsor adding cornbread croutons on top.

3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2)

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Table of Contents

  • The Best Homemade Chili
  • Only 3 Ingredients!
  • Ways to Modify
  • How to Make Easy Chili
  • 5 star review
  • Expert Tips
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Storing and Reheating Easy Chili Recipe
  • More Chili Recipes
  • Easy Chili Recipe Printable Recipe

The Best Homemade Chili

This easy 3-ingredient chili recipe similar to my chili recipe but has only three basic ingredients that you can build upon.If you have a little more time to let your chili simmer, this Wendy’s chili recipe is a winner, too.

All that you need to make it is a pound of cooked and drained ground beef, a can of chili beans (undrained), and a can of chili-ready diced tomatoes. Mix the meat, beans, and tomatoes together in a large pot, bring it to a boil, and then simmer for about 30 minutes.

Only 3 Ingredients!

It’s as easy as that! Delicious and hearty chili that’s ready in no time.

3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (3)

Find the fullprintable recipewith specific measurements below.

  • Chili beans: Make sure to use undrained beans. The sauce helps give that soupy consistency.
  • Diced tomatoes with green chiles: I like to use Rotel or Hunt’s Seasoned Diced Tomatoes in Sauce for Chili.
  • Ground beef: Lean ground beef gives the chili a heartier flavor. Drain the ground beef grease before adding the remaining ingredients.

Ways to Modify

At this point, you have a great bowl of thick and hearty chili. It serves four to six people and has a great flavor just on its own. But sometimes I like to get creative, and I’ll add in some extra ingredients to make it even better.

  • Add spice! Kick up the spice by adding chili powder, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.
  • Protein. Use different meat like shredded chuck roast, stew meat, diced chicken, ground turkey, or diced beef sausage.
  • Beans. Experiment with different beans! Try adding a can of black beans, cannellini, pinto beans, or kidney beans.
  • Garnish. Top chili with onions, jalapenos, sour cream, sliced avocado, or shredded cheddar cheese.

How to Make Easy Chili

With three pantry staple ingredients then chili will be made in three steps! It is that easy!

3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (4)
  1. Mix ingredients together in a pot. In a large pot, mix together the cooked beef, beans, and tomatoes.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 30 minutes.
  3. Serving. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Then enjoy with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped tortilla chips, and green onions.

5 star review

“Very easy chili recipe to make and it was delicious, the whole family enjoyed it, will be making it regularly, thanks!”

-Laura

Expert Tips

Take this 3 ingredient chili recipe to the next level with a few extra add-ins like seasoning, veggies, or even different meat. This is a great base to start with and stir in a twist of ingredients for the best chili recipe.

  • Seasoning. Add in more seasonings to boost the flavor. We love chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder. You can even make this homemade chili seasoning for extra flavor.
  • Vegetables. If you love to add in more ingredients try chopped carrots, sliced red onion, corn, bell peppers, or celery.
  • Don’t drain. You will want to leave the cans of beans undrained. This adds liquid to the chili and makes it more soupy.
  • Adding to the chili. When adding different ingredients, the key is to keep the ratio of 1 pound of meat, 1 can of beans, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. If it’s too thick, just add a small can of tomato sauce, along with a little chili powder.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this easy 3-ingredient chili recipe in the crockpot?

Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and mix together. Then cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. It will be the best crockpot chili!

Can I make this chili with other types of meat or beans?

The key to this recipe is that it offers limitless possibilities of variations. You can swap out the beef for turkey, Beyond meat, stew meat, chicken, etc. Want a different bean than chili? Add in whatever kind you like with a little chili seasoning. Have fun making this your own!

Can I make a vegetarian 3 ingredient chili recipe?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or omit the meat and use only vegetables.

What if I don’t have canned tomatoes with chili seasoning?

No problem! You can use canned diced tomatoes and add your own seasoning to the tomatoes.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes! That will taste fresh and flavorful. Peel and dice the fresh tomatoes for a smoother texture. Then add your own homemade chili seasoning to the tomatoes before adding them to the beef chili recipe.

3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (5)

When it comes to easy soup recipes, this quick chili recipe is at the top of my list. Some of my other favorites are taco soup, lasagna soup, crockpot chicken enchilada soup, and hearty vegetable soup.

Storing and Reheating Easy Chili Recipe

Store your 3 ingredient chili recipe with ease! It is the perfect dinner to have over and over again during the colder months. It only takes minutes to reheat and is easy to store for three months long.

  • Refrigerator. Place the chili in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for five days. When ready to enjoy reheat!
  • Freezing. Freeze this easy chili recipe for another dinner. Allow the chili to cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Store in the freezer for 3 months.
  • Thawing. Take the chili out of the freezer and place it in the fridge to let it thaw completely. Then reheat when ready.
  • Reheat. Place the easy chili in the microwave or on the stovetop until it is heated through.

More Chili Recipes

  • Easy Homemade Chili Recipe
  • Healthy Turkey Chili Recipe
  • Crockpot White Chicken Chili
  • Chili and Cornbread Skillet

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3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (10)

Easy Chili Recipe

5 from 42 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

This 3-ingredient chili recipe is made in 30 minutes or less! Thick, hearty and filled with flavor. This is the perfect easy soup recipe for fall!

Prep Time: 5 minutes mins

Cook Time: 30 minutes mins

Total Time: 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6

PrintRatePin

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef , cooked and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can chili beans , undrained
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles , I use Rotel or Hunt's Seasoned Diced Tomatoes in Sauce for Chili
  • Kosher salt , to taste
  • Ground black pepper , to taste

Optional toppings: Cheese, Sour cream, Tortilla chips, Cilantro, Green onions

    Instructions

    • In a large pot, mix the meat, beans, and tomatoes together. Bring to a boil over medium heat and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer about 30 minutes.

    • Season with salt and pepper. Enjoy with your favorite toppings, such as cheese and sour cream.

    Notes

    Heat: For a little heat, use medium Rotel. For mild, use plain diced tomatoes or mild Rotel. If you’d like even more heat, add 1 teaspoon chili powder.

    Crockpot: You could also combine in a crock pot and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

    Taking it up a notch: This is an EASY dump-and-go chili. If you’d like more flavor, try adding a diced onion and minced garlic with chili seasoning. If you’d like a homemade chili, try this chili recipe.

    Storage: Leftovers will be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 568mg | Potassium: 650mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 64IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 3mg

    Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

    Course: Soup

    Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

    Categorized as: 30 Minute Meals, 5 Ingredients Or Less, American, Beef, Beef, Dairy-Free, Dinner, Freezer-Friendly, One Pot, Soups, Stovetop, Stovetop

    3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (11)

    Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is also the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook. Here you will find easy family-friendly recipes for every occasion.

    More about Jamielyn Nye

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    38 comments

      • michael
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (12)

      Chili came out great.real quick to make after working a 12hr shift. Thx for the idea.

      • Reply
      • Hildie Johnson
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (13)

      This was easy to make and it was most enjoyable! Thank you so much for providing an easy, weeknight dinner that was tasty for all!

      • Reply
      • Cierra
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (14)

      I’m vegan, but I find it easier to take non vegan recipes and replace things to make it plant based. This recipe looked super easy so I gave it a vegan twist and it was fantastic! I replaced the ground beef with my version of tofu “ground beef.” I also added half of a diced onion and pepper and minced garlic. Then I added about 1.5 cups of veggie stock. Finally I added additional spices such as chili powder, cocoa powder, cumin, and paprika. Thank you for this recipe! It’s going to be a fall staple for me.

      • Reply
      • Laura D
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (15)

      Very easy chili recipe to make and it was delicious, the whole family enjoyed it, will be making it regularly, thanks!

      • Reply
      • Janice
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (16)

      This was so good. I added bacon to mine. Definitely b will make it again!!!

      • Reply
      • Ashley D
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (17)

      I used this recipe last year for the first time and it is now our go to chili recipe. My whole family loves it & it’s so easy! Thank you for the yummy recipes you share 😃

      • Reply
        • Taylor @ I Heart Naptime

        That makes us so happy to hear, Ashley! Glad it is a hit with your family :)

        • Reply
      • Clint Radwanski
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (18)

      Very nice recipe. I definitely love this website. Keep writing!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        Thank you! Happy to hear you enjoy our website, Clint.

        • Reply
      • Linda Seifert

      I’m not supposed to have much tomato so I make my chilli with Ranch Style Beans, onions and beef. I may have to add a little water.

      • Reply
      • DeAndra Odom
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (19)

      I work 12 hour shifts for several days so this is easy and delicious to make for my long work week!

      • Reply
      • Marva Paige
      • 3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (20)

      Love it.

      • Reply

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    3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

    FAQs

    3 Ingredient Easy Chili Recipe - I Heart Naptime? ›

    All that you need to make it is a pound of cooked and drained ground beef, a can of chili beans (undrained), and a can of chili-ready diced tomatoes. Mix the meat, beans, and tomatoes together in a large pot, bring it to a boil, and then simmer for about 30 minutes.

    What is the secret to really good chili? ›

    Only Add Flavorful Liquids

    Instead of adding water to your chili, add some more flavor with chicken or beef broth, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, or even beet or wine. Each one of these options brings out different notes and levels of sweetness that will enhance your culinary creation.

    What adds the most flavor to chili? ›

    Try a little fenugreek, turmeric, garam masala, or sumac to layer in more complex flavors. Smoky paprika is my own personal favorite. Squash, pumpkin, or sweet potato: Traditionalists would scoff, but soft chunks of slightly sweet butternut squash or sweet potato are delicious in a smoky chili.

    Why do you put vinegar in chili? ›

    Acids enhance the salty, umami-rich flavors already present in chili, and round out the sweetness, adding intricacy to the dish. Apple cider vinegar is versatile with a light, fruity flavor, but red wine and balsamic vinegar are both good choices for heavier chilis that need something bolder.

    What not to put in chili? ›

    Beans and non-vegetable fillers such as rice and pasta are not allowed." If that sounds a bit uptight, the ICS's Homestyle Chili competition defines chili as: "any kind of meat, or combination of meats, and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers, various spices, and other ingredients.

    What does tomato paste do for chili? ›

    Tomato paste is a great way to add bonus tomato flavor, and thickness, to a chili recipe. To get the best flavor it needs to be browned. Add a couple tablespoons (or a whole can if you want a thicker soup base) directly to the pan after cooking the meat and onions.

    Does chili need tomato paste? ›

    Tomato sauce is not a strong a taste as tomato paste. Also, sauce will increase the liquid content of your chili ever so slightly. Tomato paste has a more full, rich, tomato taste and smell. Using either one is appropriate, but you will need to tweak your seasonings to suit your personal tastes, anyway.

    Do you cook onions or meat first for chili? ›

    In a large pot over medium heat, heat the oil and add the onions, garlic, and red pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the beef and increase the heat to high. Cook, stirring with wooden spoon to break up the meat, until the beef is browned, 10 to 12 minutes.

    What does cinnamon do for chili? ›

    Cinnamon. The beauty of ground cinnamon is that it brings a warmth to your chili, without being spicy. It works well with other flavors commonly found in chili (like tomato, cumin and chile powder) so you only need a little bit to achieve the desired balance.

    What is chili magic? ›

    Where there's chipotle smoke, there's chili fire. Bush's® Chili Magic® Campfire Style brings tender pintos together with smoky chipotle and green bell peppers for quick, unforgettable chili any night of the week.​

    How to make chili taste homemade? ›

    Make your own spice blend

    Although canned chili will already have some seasonings, fresh herbs and spices will add bolder flavor. You can upgrade your chili using ingredients you likely already have on your spice rack, such as chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.

    Does Wendy's put sugar in their chili? ›

    Chili Concentrate: Chili Sauce (Water, Tomato Juice, Tomatoes, Calcium Chloride, Seasoning (Sugar, Salt, Corn Starch, Dried Chilies, Spices, Flavor Enhancer [Dextrose, Salt, Yeast Extract, Silicon Dioxide, Modified Corn Starch], Citric Acid, Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate, Xanthan gum), Beans (Pink Beans, Red ...

    Why do you put brown sugar in chili? ›

    The brown sugar gave it a sweet/tangy flavor that reminded me of BBQ-sauce! Th chili was so good - it was hard to stop eating it! I did had some extra veggies (1 cl. garlic, 1 celery stalk, 1 carrot, 1 bell pepper, 1 hot pepper) and used a can of diced tomatoes rather than tomato juice.

    Should chili be thick or soupy? ›

    Traditionally, we expect a robust, spicy base, meat and/or beans, perhaps some bonus veggies, and a thick, rich consistency. Unlike soups, which are brothy, or even bisques, which are creamy yet thinner, chili is meant to be more stew-like; it's a definite stick-to-your-ribs creation.

    Why put onions in chili? ›

    Onions contribute to your chili recipes in three significant ways: flavor, texture, and aroma. Whether you sauté them with chili spices at the outset of your cooking journey or opt to serve them raw as a final flourish, onions make a notable impact.

    What makes the best chili meat? ›

    The best chili meat is a combination of meats, often a mix of ground chuck, ground sirloin, brisket, diced tri-tip, and/or some bacon or sausage. Do your best to mix smaller pieces with larger pieces to stack textures and make it your own! Happy cooking!

    Why is my chili not flavorful? ›

    Change up the beans. Use black beans, pintos, or a combination of beans to give more flavor. Cook the chili! If you don't cook it long enough (or put in a pressure cooker to speed up the process), it won't taste quite right.

    How does Martha Stewart make chili? ›

    Add chili powder, cocoa, and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes more. Add tomatoes, broth, and cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, until thickened slightly, 25 to 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper; serve with sour cream and chives.

    How do you make chili taste more meaty? ›

    Ground Beef: Provides the hearty meaty base for the chili. Opt for 85% lean; the fat enriches the meat, enhancing the dish's overall flavor and texture. And don't stress about the fat—post-cooking, it's easy to skim off any excess. Baking Soda: Helps tenderize the beef by locking in moisture, making it more succulent.

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