When the chilly winds of fall begin to rustle the leaves, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chili to warm the soul. I created this Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili on one such evening, after realizing my little ones were getting tired of the same old meals. The enticing aroma wafted through my kitchen, coaxing them away from their screens and into the dining room with eager hearts.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance, combining hearty flavors with a mild hint of spice that even the pickiest eaters can appreciate. With just one pot, you can whip up a comforting meal in under an hour—ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a customizable dish that allows you to use whatever beans or vegetables you have on hand, making it as versatile as your family’s tastes. From ground beef to ground turkey, this chili is ready to become a family favorite, often leaving everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot dish is a breeze to whip up, perfect for weeknight dinners without any fuss.
Adjustable to Taste: The recipe allows you to customize ingredients, with options for ground beef or turkey and various beans, so everyone gets what they love.
Kid-Approved Flavor: With its mild spices, this chili wins over even the most discerning little palates making it a family favorite.
Quick & Convenient: Ready in under an hour, it’s a satisfying meal that fits into even the busiest of schedules.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze some for easy dinners down the road—just reheat and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions: Pair it with warm cornbread or a toppings bar for everyone to enjoy customizing their bowls!
Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili Ingredients
For the Chili Base
• Ground Beef – Use 2 lb of 85/15 blend for a savory protein boost; ground turkey makes a great lighter substitution.
• Yellow Onion – One large, diced onion adds essential sweetness and depth; it’s a must for that robust flavor.
• Green Bell Pepper – One diced bell pepper brings color and freshness; feel free to swap for red or yellow for a milder taste.
• Kidney Beans – Two cans (30 oz total) give a hearty texture and fiber; other beans like black or pinto can also work wonders.
• Tomato Sauce – One can (30 oz) creates a rich, tangy base; opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Chicken Bone Broth – Half a cup enhances the flavor and richness; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Avocado Oil – Two tablespoons for sautéing; canola or olive oil are good alternatives as well.
For the Spices
• Black Pepper – One teaspoon for a subtle kick; adjust based on your family’s spice preference.
• Sea Salt – Two teaspoons help enhance all the flavors; taste and adjust gradually while cooking.
• Paprika – One and a half teaspoons add warmth without heat, making this dish friendly for kids.
• Ground Cumin – One tablespoon brings a wonderful earthy flavor that meshes beautifully with the chili.
• Chili Powder – Two tablespoons provide depth; reduce if you’re cautious about spice levels.
• Dried Oregano – One tablespoon for aromatic notes that bring out the home-cooked flavor.
• Bay Leaf – One leaf infuses an additional layer of flavor; remember to remove it before serving.
This Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili is not only delicious but also flexible to match your family’s preferences, making it a perfect one-pot meal for any night!
How to Make Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili
Prep Ingredients: Start by dicing one large yellow onion and one green bell pepper; rinse and drain two cans of kidney beans. This sets a flavorful base for your chili.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat two tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Cook Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add 2 lbs of ground beef (or turkey). Break it into small crumbles, cooking until browned, which should take about 3 minutes.
Add Spices: Stir in the spices—1 tsp black pepper, 2 tsp sea salt, 1.5 tsp paprika, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in a 30 oz can of tomato sauce and half a cup of chicken bone broth. Add in the drained kidney beans, then bring the mixture to a boil. After boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
Final Adjustments: Remove the bay leaf, give the chili a taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Optional: Top with shredded cheese or diced avocado for extra yumminess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili
• Perfectly Browned Meat: Ensure you break the ground beef or turkey into small pieces to achieve even browning, which enhances flavor in your Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili.
• Avoid Over-Salting: Add salt gradually as flavors concentrate during cooking, preventing your chili from becoming too salty, and maintain that perfect balance.
• Veggie Texture: Allow the bell pepper and onion to soften fully before adding the meat for a lovely, aromatic base that kids will enjoy every bite.
• Thickening Tricks: For a thicker consistency, mash some of the kidney beans with a fork during the last few minutes of cooking to add creaminess without extra ingredients.
• Freezer-Friendly Meal: Make double the batch and freeze portions for quick meals later. This Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili reheats wonderfully, ensuring your family can enjoy it anytime!
What to Serve with Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili?
Cozy up your family meal with delightful sides perfect for soaking up every bit of this hearty chili.
Warm Cornbread: The sweet, buttery flavor of cornbread pairs perfectly with the mild spices, enhancing each bite of chili.
Flour Tortillas: Soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up chili, adding a comforting, doughy contrast to the dish’s hearty texture.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Rich, gooey cheese on warm garlic bread makes a decadent side, balancing the chili’s flavors beautifully.
Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad adds vibrant colors and creamy texture to your table, complementing the chili’s warming nature effortlessly.
Sour Cream Topping: A dollop of sour cream on top of each bowl provides coolness, creating a delightful contrast with your chili’s warmth.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds a sweet counterpoint, balancing the chili’s savory depth and making a complete meal.
Enhancing your family dinner with these delicious sides will ensure a warm, inviting gathering everyone will love!
Storage Tips for Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors of your chili will deepen overnight, making it even tastier for your next meal.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the chili in individual servings for up to 3 months. This is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick, satisfying dish.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during freezing.
Portion Control: Consider using freezer-safe bags to save space and make it easy to thaw exactly the amount you need for a hearty, delicious meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. You can prep the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by dicing the onion and bell pepper, draining the beans, and storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The assembled chili can be cooked, cooled, and then stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the deliciousness, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. When ready to serve, simply heat it up and enjoy a hearty, family-friendly meal that tastes just as fresh!
Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili Variations
Feel free to mix and match these fun twists to make this dish your own and cater to your family’s tastes!
Ground Turkey: Swap the ground beef for turkey to lighten up the dish without losing any flavor. It’s a fantastic, lean alternative that kids will love just as much.
Vegetarian Delight: Use lentils or a mix of beans instead of meat for a hearty, plant-based version. Combine black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans for diverse textures and flavors.
Extra Veggies: Add in chopped zucchini or carrots for an extra nutritional boost. They’ll melt into the chili, making it an undercover veggie hit with the kids!
Spice It Up: If you’re feeling bold, throw in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for the adults at the table. This simple addition can create a “spicy section” of the meal!
Different Beans: Experiment with different beans like black beans or chickpeas to add flavor and texture. Each variety brings a unique twist, turning that one pot into a fiesta!
Corny Goodness: Stir in a cup of frozen corn during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet crunch that complements the robust flavors perfectly. It’s a surprise hit that couples well with chili!
Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a delightful smoky twist. It brings another layer of depth that pairs beautifully with the existing spices.
Creamy Addition: Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese to enhance the flavors even further. It adds a creaminess that contrasts wonderfully with the chili’s heat.
With these variations, your Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili will never feel repetitive and will continue to satisfy family cravings for comfort food!
Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the chili?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using 2 lbs of 85/15 ground beef. This blend strikes the perfect balance between flavor and leanness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey is a fantastic alternative that maintains the delicious taste without the extra fat.
How long can I store the chili in the fridge?
Very! You can keep your Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The good news? As it sits, the flavors continue to blend and develop, making the leftovers even more delightful!
Can I freeze the chili?
Of course! This chili is freezer-friendly! To preserve it, pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What should I do if the chili is too salty or too bland?
Don’t worry, this can happen! If your chili ends up too salty, add a little water or additional tomato sauce to dilute the flavor. On the other hand, if it’s too bland, a dash of extra seasoning like chili powder, cumin, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar can bring it back to life. Just remember to adjust gradually and taste as you go!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Very! If you have family members with allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using low-sodium tomato sauce and broth. If you want it to be vegetarian-friendly, simply replace the ground beef with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth. And if your kids have a sensitivity to spices, feel free to cut back on the chili powder and paprika for a milder flavor that’s still satisfying.
How can I customize the ingredients in the chili?
The more the merrier! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Besides using different proteins like ground turkey, you can swap kidney beans for black or pinto beans, add in veggies like corn or diced carrots, or top with avocado, cheese, or sour cream to make it your own. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as necessary for any additional veggies!
Tasty Kid-Friendly Beef Chili: A Family Favorite in One Pot
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice one large yellow onion and one green bell pepper; rinse and drain two cans of kidney beans.
- In a large pot, heat two tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add 2 lbs of ground beef (or turkey), and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the spices—1 tsp black pepper, 2 tsp sea salt, 1.5 tsp paprika, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Pour in a 30 oz can of tomato sauce and half a cup of chicken bone broth.
- Add in the drained kidney beans, bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and serve warm.