If you want a hearty, delicious, and fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this 5-Ingredient Chili is the perfect go-to recipe. It’s incredible how just five simple ingredients can come together to create such a rich, comforting dish packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or craving something cozy on a chilly day, this chili hits all the right notes without any complicated steps or overwhelming ingredient lists.

5-Ingredient Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These five ingredients might be few, but each one plays a vital role in making this chili flavorful, vibrant, and perfectly hearty. From the savory richness of ground beef to the spicy kick of taco seasoning, everything contributes beautifully in both taste and texture.

1 pound ground beef: The foundation of this chili, providing that robust meaty flavor and satisfying protein.
2 (14.5-ounce) cans beans, rinsed and drained: I like using half kidney beans and half pintos for a nice balance of creaminess and bite.
2 (14.5-ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles: These add smoky depth and a subtle spicy kick that makes the chili interesting without overpowering.
1 (14.5-ounce) can tomato sauce: This binds everything together with smooth tomato richness and a luscious, saucy texture.
1/4 cup taco seasoning: Whether homemade or store-bought, this seasoning mix gives the chili that signature southwestern flavor profile.

How to Make 5-Ingredient Chili

Step 1: Brown the beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step builds the very base of your chili’s rich flavor, so don’t rush it. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Stir in the beans and tomatoes

Once your beef is browned, add in the rinsed and drained beans along with the fire-roasted diced tomatoes that have those zesty green chiles. These ingredients bring heartiness and a slight kick, enhancing both the color and the complexity of the chili.

Step 3: Add tomato sauce and taco seasoning

Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the mixture. Stir well to combine everything so the beef, beans, and tomatoes are perfectly coated with that layer of warm, spicy seasoning that’s essential to the 5-Ingredient Chili’s irresistible flavor.

Step 4: Simmer gently

Bring your chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a chili that tastes like it simmered for hours, even when pressed for time.

Step 5: Final seasoning

Before serving, give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes it just calls for a pinch more salt, or maybe a little extra taco seasoning to amp up the flavor. This small step makes all the difference in perfecting your 5-Ingredient Chili.

How to Serve 5-Ingredient Chili

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can instantly elevate the cozy experience of this chili. Try topping your bowl with shredded cheese that melts into warm pockets of gooey goodness, a dollop of sour cream for tangy creaminess, chopped green or red onions for a fresh crunch, or diced avocado for buttery richness. Crushed tortilla chips add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the thick stew.

Side Dishes

This chili is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Cornbread is a classic companion with its slightly sweet, crumbly texture soaking up every bit of chili juice. A crisp green salad refreshes the palate, while warm tortillas or rice can round out the meal for extra comfort and satiety.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not shake things up a bit? Serve your 5-Ingredient Chili over baked potatoes for a crowd-pleasing twist, or pile it into crispy taco shells for a fun chili taco night. Another fun idea is layering it in a slow cooker dip with cheese and sour cream for casual entertaining. The possibilities are as tasty as they are creative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover 5-Ingredient Chili is a true gift. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will only deepen, making it an easy and delicious option for lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zipper bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat chili gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the chili feels too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Microwaving in intervals, stirring in between, works well too for a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I make this 5-Ingredient Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans. You might also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles?

You can use Ro*Tel tomatoes as a substitute. Just be aware they’re usually a bit spicier, so start with less and adjust to taste. Regular diced tomatoes will also work if you want a milder chili.

Is the taco seasoning necessary?

Yes, it really makes the chili shine by adding those classic southwestern spices. If you don’t have pre-made seasoning, you can mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

How spicy is this 5-Ingredient Chili?

It’s mildly spicy due to the green chiles and taco seasoning, but you can easily adjust the heat by choosing milder or hotter diced tomatoes and customizing the seasoning blend.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Definitely. This chili scales up wonderfully for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Just use a larger pot and increase cooking time slightly if needed to ensure everything heats evenly.

Final Thoughts

This 5-Ingredient Chili truly proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something spectacularly comforting and flavorful. It’s become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s quick, flexible, and always hits the spot. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how a few easy steps can deliver a bowl of pure cozy satisfaction.