This freezer-friendly chili is hearty and packed with flavor! With ground meat, beans, and tomatoes, it’s like a warm hug on a cold day.
I love how easy it is to make a big batch and save leftovers for busy nights. Plus, chili always tastes better after sitting for a bit. Yum! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing. If you’re out, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil will work just fine. I prefer olive oil for its rich flavor!
Ground Meat: I use ground beef for its heartiness, but ground turkey is a lighter, healthier option. You can also skip the meat completely for a vegetarian version; just add extra beans or lentils.
Beans: Kidney beans add protein and texture. If you’re not a fan, try black beans or chickpeas instead. They work just as well in chili!
Sweet Potatoes: They add natural sweetness and nutrition. If you don’t have any, regular potatoes or even diced zucchini can be swapped in. Just adjust cooking times for the last two options.
Spices: Chili powder is essential for flavor. If you’re out, a mix of paprika and cumin can help mimic that taste. Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust seasonings based on your spice tolerance.
How Do I Get My Chili to Taste Amazing?
Getting the flavors just right in chili involves layering ingredients effectively. Start with sautéing the onions and bell pepper in olive oil — it builds a strong base. After adding the garlic, the next crucial step is adding the spices with the ground meat.
- Make sure to cook the spices for a few minutes to unlock their flavors before adding liquids.
- Allow the chili to simmer low and slow for at least 30-40 minutes; this helps all the flavors meld together harmoniously.
- Taste your chili before serving! Adjust salt, add more chili powder, or a bit of vinegar for brightness if needed.
Freezer-Friendly Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 to 1.5 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 to 2 medium sweet potatoes or regular potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 40 minutes for cooking. If you’re making it for freezing, you may want to allow extra time for cooling down before packing. Overall, you can have a delicious, hearty chili ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Veggies:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are softened and the onion becomes translucent. This is the perfect time to infuse the oil with those delicious flavors!
2. Adding Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring often to avoid burning. You want the garlic to be fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Cooking the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through. It usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the delicious base for your chili!
4. Mixing in the Spices:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, salt, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy). Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavors.
5. Stirring in the Liquids:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir everything together to combine well. This is what makes your chili nice and hearty!
6. Adding the Potatoes and Beans:
Next, add your cubed sweet potatoes or regular potatoes, and kidney beans if you’re using them. They add texture and a healthy boost to your chili.
7. Simmering the Chili:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for at least 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
8. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as you like. Maybe it needs a bit more salt or spice — it’s all up to your preference!
9. Cooling for Freezing:
Let the chili cool down before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. If frozen, chili can last for about 3 months. Just be sure to label them for easy identification later!
10. Reheating for Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy your chili, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. It’s perfect on a busy weeknight!
11. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Before serving, garnish each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for that extra zing! Enjoy with tortilla chips or any of your favorite sides!
This chili freezes and reheats wonderfully, making it a perfect meal prep choice for your busy days ahead!
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! If using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them separately until tender before adding them to the chili. This will ensure they are soft and properly cooked!
How Can I Thicken My Chili?
If you find your chili too thin, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water for a quick thickening solution.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Let your chili cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Chili?
Some tasty toppings include sour cream, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or even crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch. Get creative with your favorites!
