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Bowl of hearty homemade chili topped with shredded cheese and tortilla chips on a rustic wooden table
Summer Dempsey

Hearty Chili Soup

This easy weeknight chili is rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavor—made with simple pantry ingredients and ready with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1½ lb ground beef
  • 1 can corn (drained)
  • 1 can kidney beans (drained)
  • 1 can pinto beans (drained)
  • 1 can Rotel (tomatoes with green chiles)
  • 1 can tomato paste
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (can use less if less spice desired)
  • 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
  • 2 cans beef broth
  • Optional toppings: Fritos, shredded cheese, sour cream

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • or Crock Pot

Method
 

Directions
  1. Brown the meat in a large pot over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
  2. While the meat is browning, add the rest of the ingredients into a big pot (corn drained, beans drained, Rotel, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, ranch mix, and beef broth). Stir to combine.
  3. Add the browned meat into the pot and stir everything together.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes-1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  5. CROCK POT METHOD: Add browned meat and remaining ingredients to crock pot set to low for 4 hours.
  6. Serve hot with toppings like Fritos, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level: Use less taco seasoning or choose a mild Rotel if you prefer a milder chili. Add extra chili powder or hot sauce for more heat.
  • Make it thicker: Let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes, or mash a small portion of the beans to naturally thicken it.
  • Flavor gets better over time: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
  • Crock pot option: After browning the meat, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours for an even deeper flavor.
  • Swap the protein: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.