Classic Chili con Carne with Beans

A cozy, weeknight chili with beef, beans, and smoky spices—lean, satisfying, and ready in under 40 minutes. This single-serving version keeps the comforting depth of traditional chili, with a touch of cinnamon and a bright finish from lime.

  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min
Servings:
2 servings
(originally 1 serving)

Ingredients(scaled)

  • 2 1/3 lb (150 g) ground beef
  • 2 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 2 small garlic clove, minced
  • 2 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 1/2 cup beans (kidney or pinto), rinsed and drained
  • 2 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 2 1/2 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 1/8 tsp cayenne (optional)
  • 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 2 lime wedge (optional, for finish)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1/2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; add onion and garlic, cook 2–3 minutes until soft.
  2. Increase heat to medium-high; add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, cook until no pink remains, 4–5 minutes.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth; simmer 8–10 minutes to meld flavors, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add beans; simmer 3–5 minutes until heated through and thickened to your liking.
  6. Taste and adjust salt; finish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.

Chef’s Pro Tips

  • Brown the meat well for deeper flavor.
  • A quick splash of lime juice at the end brightens the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a small bed of rice or with a warm corn tortilla and a dollop of sour cream.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Nutritional Estimates
Per serving · 2 servings total
calories420
protein28 g
carbs38 g
fat18 g

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