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Enjoy a comforting and flavorful single serve bowl of classic Chili in just 30 minutes, perfect for a meal for one or a cozy dinner for two. This single serving beef chili recipe is a wonderful solution for those who prefer not to prepare a massive pot. Made with ingredients that are simple to find, this chili delivers a satisfying and classic flavor, portioned just right for your enjoyment without any leftover waste.
Enjoy a robust and flavorful bowl of beef chili accompanied by a soft, warm slice of Cornbread, a fresh and crunchy Cucumber Salad, and crispy Tortilla Chips for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe
- Simplicity: Made with simple ingredients and minimal steps, anyone can whip up this beef chili.
- Versatility: This single serving recipe is perfect for various occasions – be it a quick lunch or an elegant dinner.
- Adaptability: With alternative ingredient options, you can cater to different dietary preferences.
- Comfort: A bowl of this chili feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy evenings.
- Speed: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a steaming bowl of delicious chili ready to enjoy.
What Is Chili?
Chili is a comforting stew that often combines meat, beans, tomatoes, and a rich blend of spices. It’s a dish celebrated for its heartiness, warmth, and customizable flavor profile. From classic Texas-style chili that embraces beef and bold flavors to vegetarian versions filled with diverse vegetables, chili is a beloved meal across many cultures.
When we talk about “Chili For One,” we’re referring to a specially crafted version of this popular dish, designed to serve just one person. It embodies all the delightful flavors and textures of a traditional chili but in a portion that’s perfect for an individual meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or want a small batch to avoid leftovers, our classic chili recipe for one ensures that you can enjoy this comfort food freshly made, every single time. It’s the same beloved chili taste, tailored to fit your table for one!
Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this beef chili recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Olive oil: Healthy and full of flavor, adds richness. Substitute with avocado oil, vegetable oil or butter.
- Onions and garlic: These ingredients add so much flavor. Don’t be tempted to just toss these vegetables into the chili, they need to be cooked. Cooking brings out the flavor. Cook the onions until they are translucent, about 2 minutes and then add in minced garlic to cook a minute longer.
- Ground beef: Ground beef is my go-to choice for this chili recipe, lending it a rich, savory flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey works wonderfully as well. Just make sure to brown the meat in the skillet before adding the beans and tomatoes. And don’t worry if you’re looking for a vegetarian version – tofu or mushrooms can be easily substituted, still delivering a delicious taste. Leftover ground beef can be used to make Chili Mac, Hamburger Casserole, and Spaghetti Sauce.
- Chili powder, ground cumin, and dried basil: Spices are necessary and add an incredible amount of flavor. Feel free to adjust quantities for personal taste.
- Red beans: For this chili, I prefer canned red kidney beans for their convenience and their perfect fit in classic chili recipes. They’re hearty and maintain their shape well. If red beans aren’t your thing, feel free to switch to pinto beans or black beans. A 1/4 cup will do the trick, and if you have red beans leftover, consider using them in a single serve Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice or Stovetop Red Beans and Rice.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Using a 14.5 to 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes adds flavor and simplicity, but fresh tomatoes can also grace your chili. Substitute with 2 cups of freshly chopped tomatoes if that’s your preference. If tomatoes aren’t in the plan, try roasted red peppers for a slightly sweeter substitution. Either way, you’ll create a delightful taste that makes this chili your own! Leftover diced tomatoes can be used in Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja and Chicken Tacos.
This is just an overview of the ingredients I used and why I used them. For the full recipe please scroll down to the recipe box at the bottom of the post.
Recipe Variations
Chili is all about personal tastes and preferences. Explore these variations:
- Spicy Chili: Add a diced jalapeno or extra chili powder.
- Low Carb Chili: If you’re watching your carbs, omit the beans and add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and flavorful chili.
- Mediterranean Chili: Add some kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano to give your chili a Mediterranean twist. It’s a delightful fusion that brings new dimensions of flavor.
- Breakfast Chili: Why not start the day with chili? Add some cooked breakfast sausage, diced potatoes, and top with a fried egg. Serve alongside toast for a comforting and satisfying breakfast.
Remember, the best thing about chili is its versatility. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques to create a dish that’s uniquely yours.
How To Make Chili For One
These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make beef chili. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Cook onions and garlic in a medium-sized skillet until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until no longer pink, 8 minutes.
- Add the spices, beans, and tomatoes, then bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour into a bowl and enjoy.
Expert Tips
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and basil bring the heat and flavor to this quick chili recipe for one. For a unique twist, consider substituting them with a teaspoon of homemade taco seasoning.
- Bean Varieties: Although red beans are the classic choice, feel free to get creative with whatever beans you have on hand. Mixing several kinds can add a delightful texture and flavor.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: This recipe hits the right spice note for many, but don’t hesitate to tailor it to your liking. Want more heat? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot pepper sauce. Your taste buds, your rules!
- Vegetarian Option: If meat isn’t on the menu, no worries! Simply crumble extra-firm tofu instead of ground beef, and add black beans. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and flavorful chili that satisfies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can. Chili freezes beautifully. Just place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and keep it in the freezer until you are ready to enjoy it. Let the chili thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in a saucepan or in the microwave. Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Absolutely!
Certainly! While I personally enjoy the hearty texture that beans add to the chili, I understand that they might not be everyone’s favorite. If beans aren’t your thing, feel free to leave them out entirely. This recipe is versatile, and omitting the beans won’t take away from the rich, savory flavor of the dish. Enjoy your chili just the way you like it!
Slow-cooked beef chili not only tastes incredible but also makes for a mostly hands-off cooking experience. Here’s how you can adapt this single serving chili recipe for your slow cooker:
Browning the Meat: I strongly recommend browning the ground beef on the stove first. Skipping this step might result in a less appealing texture, and the dish might become overly fatty.
Cooking Onions and Garlic: Sautéing the onions and garlic on the stove enriches their flavor and texture. While you can skip this step if you’re short on time, I find that precooking these ingredients enhances the overall taste.
Slow Cooker Settings: Once you’ve prepped the meat and vegetables, combine them with the remaining ingredients in the slow cooker. Set it to cook on LOW for 4 hours.
Choosing the Right Slow Cooker: For the best results with this single serving recipe, opt for a 1.5 to 2-quart slow cooker.
These adjustments will ensure that your slow cooker chili is as rich and flavorful as the stovetop version. Enjoy the simplicity and savor the results!
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the chili powder to taste.
RELATED: Simple Canned Bean Recipes
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you’ve tried this beef chili or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see!
Chili For One
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- 4 ounces ground beef
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ cup canned red beans rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce)can diced tomatoes , including juice
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, heat oil 30 seconds. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook an additional 1 minute.
- Add ground beef to skillet and break up with a spatula. Stir occasionally and cook until no longer pink, about 8 minutes.
- Add salt, chili powder, and cumin; stir another 10 seconds.
- Add beans, tomatoes, and basil, then bring mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer on low heat and cook 10 minutes.
- Spoon chili into a bowl and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and basil bring the heat and flavor to this quick chili recipe. For a unique twist, consider substituting them with a teaspoon of homemade taco seasoning.
- Bean Varieties: Although red beans are the classic choice, feel free to get creative with whatever beans you have on hand. Mixing several kinds can add a delightful texture and flavor.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: This recipe hits the right spice note for many, but don’t hesitate to tailor it to your liking. Want more heat? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot pepper sauce. Your taste buds, your rules!
- Vegetarian Option: If meat isn’t on the menu, no worries! Simply crumble extra-firm tofu instead of ground beef, and add black beans. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and flavorful chili that satisfies.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
I added half a diced jalapeño (with the onions) and 1/2 cup black beans. I served it over elbow noodles and topped it with parmesan cheese. Delicious! It was enough to feed my family of three for dinner tonight. Everyone enjoyed it. Thanks!
Wonderful! I’m so happy everyone enjoyed the chili – thank you.
I made this recipe earlier this week. I doubled the recipe. It made enough to feed my husband and I for one meal and I had leftovers for lunch today. I either had it with Jiffy corn bread muffins or corn chips. I ended up using a whole can of black bean because I love beans. And I added 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder to bump up the flavor. It was delicious. I plan on putting this in my rotation for cold weather meals.
I just made this tonight. I doubled the recipe and used used the alternative fresh tomatoes instead of canned. I’m so glad I made extra. It’s easy, fast and delicious!
I’m so happy you enjoyed the chili, Lisa. Thank you so much for your feedback.
How much chili does this recipe end up making? Like 1 cup or 2 cups,etc?
This chili recipe yields a standard-sized bowl of chili, maybe 2 cups.
I’m assuming you can leave the beans out altogether? I’m from Texas and we don’t put beans in our chili.
Sure, feel free to leave the beans out if you prefer.
Terrific recipe.
Good but not nearly enough chili or cumin even for a serving for one.
And that’s why Joanie says it’s seasoned to her taste. The nice thing about seasoning is you can use more or less as you like.
Delicious and easy
Honestly, this is one of the only recipes I’ll double for leftovers. So. Stinkin. Yummy. And super customizable!
Another winner. I never have the time to spend hours waiting for a dish. This makes it possible to enjoy this favorite comfort food on regular basis.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the chili. Thank you so much for taking the time to let me know.
I am a novice cook and I have made this three times and it is excellent as written (as was the pomodoro sauce). Your instructions are very clear. The recipe is also great for practicing the skills of chopping an onion, mincing garlic, and sautéing (with a little help from Jacques Pepin’s online videos).
Can the recipe be doubled and if so, should a 12-inch pan be used or would a 10-inch pan still suffice?
Thank you in advance for your response and for the great recipes that are giving me more confidence and variety as a home cook.
I really enjoyed this recipe. Thanks!