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Easy Skillet Beef Chili

Easy Skillet Beef Chili

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Skillet Beef Chili is a rich and flavorful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this chili combines tender beef, hearty beans, and zesty spices for a meal you'll want to make again and again. Don't miss out on the chance to create this cozy dish tonight!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder add another teaspoon if you want more heat!
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 15 ounce can kidney or black beans drained and rinsed
  • 15 ounce can chopped tomatoes (use fire roasted for deeper flavor)
  • 1 lime
  • 1/2 pound McCain Smiles
  • Toppings: sour cream, grated mozzarella, cheddar, and/or Mexican blend cheese, diced tomatoes, diced onion

Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes or until they begin to soften.
  2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  3. Add the ground beef, kosher salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin and then sauté for 5 minutes or until the beef is cooked through.
  4. Add the kidney or black beans, chopped tomatoes, and lime juice and then simmer for an additional 3 minutes to reduce slightly and heat through.
  5. While the chili is cooking, place the McCain Smiles in an air fryer basket or baking sheet in the oven and cook according to package directions.
  6. Place the Smiles on top of chili and serve with toppings on the side.

Notes

  • Adjust the thickness: Simmer uncovered for a heartier chili, or add a splash of broth if you like it looser.
  • Make extra: Chili tastes even better the next day, so double the batch and freeze some for later. You may have to use a larger pot to make a double batch.
  • Set up a chili bar: Put out toppings and let everyone customize their own bowl! It makes dinner more fun and interactive for kids.
  • Storage: Allow chili to cool and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove until heated through. Add fresh Smiles on top before serving.
  • Freezing: Store cooled chili in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Skip the Smiles until serving day so they stay crispy.