When those classic Canadian chills hit, I’m not reaching for pizza or burgers — I want something warm, hearty, and actually satisfying.
That’s where my ‘better than takeout one-pot chili recipe’ comes in. It’s packed with good stuff, easy to make, and only one pot to worry about. Whether you’re feeding the crowd or just need a soul-food to satisfy your cravings, this 5-step, 5-ingredient chili recipe has your back.
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5 Good Reasons to Why You’ll Love It Too
- Super Easy: Just a few minutes of prep, toss it all in one pot, and let it cook. Bonus: only one dish to clean. Did I mention you only need 5 ingredients?!
- Customizable: Spice it up or keep it mild. Add extra meat or go veggie-only. Prefer it thin or cheesy? You can even swap the meat for plant-based protein for a vegan twist.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with iron-rich beans and lean protein — ideal for beta thalassemia minors like me. Whether you’re chasing a healthy meal or curled up during flu season, this chili hits the spot.
- Budget-Friendly: Beans, canned tomatoes, and veggies are affordable and filling. It’s perfect for batch cooking, cutting food waste, and saving money on takeout.
- Weeknight Favorite: Chili stores well and tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch, freeze the leftovers, and enjoy stress-free dinners all week.
🌿 Just a friendly reminder: I’m a passionate foodie, not a certified nutrition or health professional. Everything shared here — recipes, tips, and food inspiration — is meant for enjoyment and creativity in your kitchen. For dietary guidance or health concerns, always consult a qualified professional.
How It’s Made in 5 Steps
This simple on-pot chili comes together with ground meat, beans, veggies, and a tomato base. It’s my go-to feel-good meal when I need an energy boost on gloomy winter days. Just five ingredients and five easy steps — let’s get into it.
Step 1 – Ingredients & substitutions
- Ground meat – Beef, chicken, turkey, or Tofu (choose one)
- Beans – Kidney, black, pinto, navy, or lima (choose one or mix a few)
- Veggies – Carrots, mushrooms, celery, onion, bell pepper, zucchini, corn, tomato (pick one or a few)
- Flavor base – Tomato puree, pasta sauce, Catelli garden sauce, broth
- Seasoning – Salt, black pepper powder, chili powder, curry powder, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, cayenne (or go with store-bought chili seasoning)
Step 2 – Brown the meat
Heat a deep pot over medium-high. Add your ground meat and break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully browned, move to the next step.
Step 3 – Add the beans and veggies
My default is the red kidney beans and onions, but you can go with any one or multiple beans or veggies to add nutritions to your one-pot chili.
Step 5 – Add the base & seasonings
Another one of my default is the Catelli garden select sauce plus equal amount of water. You can add half broth half water for a rich-depth of flavor. As for the seasoning, combine the store-bought chili seasoning or you can add all the seasoning listed above to customize your own.
🍽️ Craving more? From vegan‑friendly dishes, meat‑lovers favorites, to soul-food from the island, there’s a burst of flavor waiting in every recipe. Cook to satisfy your cravings — one delicious bite at a time.
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5 Ways to Enjoy Chili
• The Classic Bowl Style
The timeless go-to. Chili is served piping hot in a deep bowl, topped with shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped onions, and jalapeños. It’s often paired with cornbread, saltine crackers, or crusty bread — perfect for dipping and scooping.
• Berrychik Style
A flavorful twist! Served in a deep bowl and topped with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and crispy fried onions. Pair it with cheesy garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, or warm dinner rolls. Sprinkle chili flakes on top for an extra spicy kick.
• Chili on Hot Dogs
Known as a chili dog in the U.S., this is a cookout and diner favorite. Just place a hot dog in a bun, spoon warm chili over it, and top with shredded cheese, diced onions, pickles, and a drizzle of mustard or ketchup. Great for game days and casual gatherings.
• Chili Cheese Fries
Crispy fries smothered in chili and melted cheese, then topped with shredded cheddar. Often called chili cheese fries, this indulgent snack is a staple at fast-food joints and sports bars.
• Chili-Stuffed Baked Potatoes
A cozy Canadian winter favorite. Baked potatoes are split open and filled with warm chili, then topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and your choice of diced veggies like green onions or bell peppers.
Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw and reheat on the stove or microwave.
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One-Pot Chili Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a deep pot over the stove-top. Add ground meat and break it into small pieces as it cooks (about 10 minutes).
- When the meat browns, add the kidney beans and onions.
- Combine the Catelli garden select sauce plus equal amount of water. Add the store-bought chili seasoning and stir well.
- Reduce the heat to medium, cook for 10 minutes without the lid, then cover and continue to cook for 15 minutes, then bring to a boil.
- Add cheese at the end if desired before removing off the stove.
Final Thoughts on One-Pot Chili Recipe
This one‑pot chili proves that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just 5 ingredients, a single pot, and 30 minutes, you get a bowl that’s hearty, nourishing, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that works on busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this chili even better is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it in so many ways — over rice, with bread, on fries, in wraps, or simply on its own. And because it’s naturally rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it’s a meal that fuels your body while still feeling like comfort food.
It also shines as a meal‑prep hero. Make a batch once, and you’ve got lunches or dinners ready for days. It reheats beautifully, freezes well, and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Simple ingredients. One pot. Endless possibilities. This chili is proof that easy recipes can still deliver big, bold, feel‑good flavor.
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