30 Minute Easy Southern Chili Recipe

Warm up with a bowl of hearty southern chili recipe made from scratch. Made with simple pantry ingredients in less than 30 minutes you can have dinner on the table.

When it comes to comfort food a good bowl of southern chili is hard to beat. It is full of flavor and a hearty dish. This classic dish is a staple in many Southern households, with each family putting their own unique spin on the recipe. From spicy and smoky flavors to a rich and thick texture, southern chili is the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly evening. In this article I will walk you through how we make our southern chili recipe here on the homestead and have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. 

The best thing about this chili recipe is how versatile and customizable it is. If an ingredient doesn’t work for you or your family you can substitute it for whatever ingredient your family likes. If you want the flavors to meld together even more instead of cooking this recipe in 30 minutes let it simmer longer. Since this is a 30 minute recipe for homemade chili you do need to use a pot on the stove. If you try using a crock pot or slow cooker it will not cook it fast enough to be ready within 30 minutes. 

This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read my disclosure policy here.

Equipment

• Cast iron Dutch oven – Any large pot will work but a Dutch oven works best since it retains heat better.
• Ladle
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 16 ounce cans of Kidney beans (drained) – You can use either dark red kidney beans or light red kidney beans.
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 28 ounce can of petite diced tomatoes
• 1 28 ounce can of crushed tomatoes
• 6 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped) – optional

How to Make our Southern Chili Recipe

1. Over medium to high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain the excess grease from the ground beef.

2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (optional). Allow to cook for 3-5 minutes or until the onions begin to turn transparent.

3. Do NOT drain the juice off the diced or crushed tomatoes. Drain the kidney beans. Add in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, beans, and chili powder. Stir until everything is well combined.

4. Bring the chili to a boil. Once boiling reduce the heat, place the lid on the pot, and allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Remove from the heat, serve and enjoy.

Storage

Any leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator. In the fridge it should last 5 – 6 days. 

How to Use Leftover Chili

Chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways besides the traditional bowl of chili with crackers. Here are some ways to enjoy your leftover chili:

1. Chili-Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Bake some large russet potatoes until tender, then slice them open and stuff them with your favorite chili recipe. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a hearty and satisfying meal.

2. Chili Tacos: Heat up some corn or flour tortillas, then fill them with leftover chili, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

3. Chili Mac and Cheese: Cook up your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe, then stir in some heated chili for a delicious twist on this classic comfort food dish.

4. Chili-Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cut off the tops of bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Fill each pepper with chili, then bake in the oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. Top with shredded cheese before serving.

5. Chili Nachos: Layer tortilla chips on a baking sheet, then top with heated chili, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, black olives, and green onions. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Chili Burger : Grilled beef patty topped with chili beans , cheddar cheese , salsa served in toasted bun.

7. Chilli cheese Fries : After baking fries top with chili and cheddar cheese for a quick easy dinner or snack.

8. Chili cheese hotdogs: Cook your hotdogs place them in a bun and top with chili and cheese. 

FAQ’s

In conclusion, this southern chili recipe is a beloved and classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a summer cookout or enjoyed on a cozy winter evening, this recipe never fails to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, simmer them together, and savor the delicious taste of southern chili. 

If you try this recipe, I would appreciate it if you left a star rating or a written review below. I love hearing your feedback!

Shop Post

Save Post For Later