When the chilly winds of fall begin to swirl, there’s nothing quite like a steaming pot of beef chili to warm the soul. I remember the first time I decided to create a family-friendly version of this classic dish. With my kids often turning their noses up at anything too spicy, I knew I needed a recipe that delivered on flavor without overwhelming their taste buds. This tasty kid-friendly beef chili has become my go-to for weeknight dinners—loaded with colorful veggies and wholesome ingredients that make even the pickiest eaters come back for seconds.
It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy precious family time instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, the customizable options mean you can swap in turkey, different beans, or even sneak in some extra veggies—all while ensuring it remains a delightful triumph that pleases everyone at the table. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that might just become a staple in your home too!
Why is this Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili special?
Family-Friendly: This dish caters to the entire family, making it a great option for weeknight meals.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the meat and beans to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with colorful veggies, it provides essential nutrients without compromising on taste.
Quick & Easy: Whip it up in under an hour, freeing up more time for quality moments with loved ones.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its mild flavors, even the pickiest eaters will love it—perfect for any dinner setting.
One-Pot Meal: Simplify cleanup while still serving a hearty and satisfying dish, making it a win-win for busy nights!
Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili Ingredients
For the Chili
• Ground Beef – Recommended 85/15 blend for flavorful, juicy chili; you can swap it for ground turkey for a lighter dish.
• Avocado Oil – Perfect for sautéing vegetables; substitute with canola oil or any neutral oil if desired.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder onion flavor.
• Green Bell Pepper – Provides color and sweetness; can be traded for red or yellow peppers for a sweeter bite.
• Kidney Beans – Offers heartiness and fiber; black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutions.
• Tomato Sauce – Forms the base of the chili; crushed tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture.
• Chicken Bone Broth – Enhances flavors and adds richness; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative.
• Paprika and Chili Powder – Infuse flavor while keeping it mild; adjust or omit chili powder based on spice preferences.
• Ground Cumin and Dried Oregano – Give depth and aroma; fresh herbs can be swapped in where suitable.
• Sea Salt – Perfect for enhancing all flavors; kosher salt serves as a good alternative.
• Black Pepper – Offers mild heat; adjust to your family’s taste preferences.
Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients and create your own version of this tasty kid-friendly beef chili that your loved ones will adore!
How to Make Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili
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Prepare Vegetables: Start by dicing the onion and green bell pepper into small pieces. Also, drain and rinse your kidney beans to ensure they’re nice and clean.
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Sauté Base: Heat about 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Cook Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces, browning it for about 3 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
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Add Spices: Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes to bloom the spices.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in 1 can of tomato sauce (15 oz) and 2 cups of chicken bone broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Add the kidney beans and stir to combine all the lovely ingredients.
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Simmer: Bring your chili to a hearty boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Final Touches: Once it’s thickened up a bit, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove any large, bay leaves if you used them, then serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This chili is known to get even more flavorful after a day in the fridge!
Freezer: Portion out chili into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them for quick access during busy nights!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Tip: For best taste, consider letting your chili rest for a few minutes after reheating; the flavors will meld beautifully again!
What to Serve with Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili?
When it comes to complementing a warm bowl of chili, the right sides can enhance your meal and create a delightful family feast.
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Cornbread: This sweet, buttery bread adds a delicious contrast to the savory chili, perfect for dunking.
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Warm Tortillas: Soft, fresh tortillas are perfect for scooping up chili, making each bite special. They also allow for creative taco-building for the kids!
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Sour Cream: A cool dollop of sour cream on top balances the chili’s warmth and adds a creamy texture that kids love.
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Shredded Cheese: A generous sprinkle of cheese not only looks appetizing but also melts beautifully into the hot chili, creating a rich and gooey delight.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a fresh element that complements the flavors in your chili, offering a satisfying bite.
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Carrot Sticks: Add a crunchy, refreshing side of carrot sticks for a healthy, crisp accompaniment that encourages kids to munch on their veggies.
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Cucumber Slices: Refreshing cucumber slices are a light, crisp side that helps cleanse the palate between bites of the hearty chili.
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Apple Crisp: Finish off with a warm apple crisp for dessert, as its sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory nature of the chili, creating a comforting end to the meal.
With these suggestions, your kid-friendly beef chili will shine even brighter as the centerpiece of your family gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the onions and bell peppers, as well as drain and rinse the kidney beans, up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the entire chili up to 3 days ahead of time; let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chili on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal that saves you time on busy weeknights!
Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists that add a personal touch to your chili creation.
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version that’s just as satisfying. It’s a great way to keep things light without sacrificing flavor.
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Bean Bonanza: Replace kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas for a different texture and taste. Each bean type brings its unique charm to the dish.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like corn, zucchini, or even carrots to boost nutrition. Kids won’t even notice with all that flavor!
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Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the chili’s depth. The subtle smokiness will make your chili unforgettable.
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Heat it Up: For a little kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Just remember to taste as you go for the right balance!
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Herb Infusion: Swap dried oregano for fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a vibrant twist. Fresh flavors brighten the dish and keep it exciting.
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Creamy Finish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at serving for a creamy texture that balances the spices beautifully.
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Lentil Lover: Use lentils instead of meat for a vegetarian-friendly option packed with protein. They’re hearty and will satisfy even the biggest meat lovers!
Expert Tips for Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili
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Perfect Meat Choice: Use an 85/15 ground beef blend for rich flavor. Ground turkey is a healthier alternative that still gives great taste without the grease.
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Don’t Skip the Veggies: Sauté your onions and bell peppers until soft before adding meat—we build flavors that way! A well-cooked base makes for a more enjoyable chili.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re unsure about chili powder, start with less. You can always add more later, but it’s hard to take out the heat!
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Thickening Tricks: For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered longer to reduce liquid or mash a few beans against the pot side—this adds creaminess and texture.
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Flavor Boost: Let your chili sit overnight in the fridge! It allows the flavors to deepen. Reheating the next day yields a tastier result.
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Storage Savvy: Keep leftovers in airtight containers; they can last up to 5 days in the fridge, or freeze them for up to 3 months, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Tasty Kid Friendly Beef Chili Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for this chili?
I recommend using an 85/15 blend of ground beef for a deliciously flavorful chili without excessive grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey is an excellent substitute that still maintains great taste!
How long can I store leftover chili in the fridge?
Store your tasty kid-friendly beef chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I often find that the flavors deepen and become even more delicious after a day in the fridge.
Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely! Portion out any leftovers into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label them so you can quickly grab a meal on busy nights!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen chili?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chili, reheat it slowly on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave. I suggest adding a splash of broth to restore the desired consistency. Let it sit for a few minutes after reheating for the best flavor.
Can I customize the ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! This recipe is highly customizable; feel free to swap out kidney beans for black beans or chickpeas to cater to your family’s preferences. Additionally, you can opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth for a vegetarian version.
How can I thicken my chili if it’s too watery?
If you find your chili is too thin after simmering, don’t worry! Simply simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid, or mash a few beans against the side of the pot to create a creamier texture.
Crunchy Kid-Friendly Beef Chili: A Tasty Twist for Families!
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1 pound Ground Beef Recommended 85/15 blend for flavorful, juicy chili; can swap for ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Perfect for sautéing vegetables; can substitute with canola oil or any neutral oil
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor
- 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Provides color and sweetness; can be traded for red or yellow peppers
- 1 can (15 oz) Kidney Beans Offers heartiness and fiber; black beans or pinto beans work well
- 1 can Tomato Sauce Forms the base; crushed tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture
- 2 cups Chicken Bone Broth Enhances flavors; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative
- 2 teaspoons Paprika Infuses flavor while keeping it mild
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust based on spice preferences
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Gives depth and aroma
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Gives depth and aroma; fresh herbs can be swapped
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Enhances all flavors; kosher salt serves as a good alternative
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Offers mild heat; adjust to taste
Instructions
Directions
- Prepare Vegetables: Start by dicing the onion and green bell pepper into small pieces. Also, drain and rinse your kidney beans to ensure they’re nice and clean.
- Sauté Base: Heat about 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces, browning it for about 3 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes to bloom the spices.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in 1 can of tomato sauce (15 oz) and 2 cups of chicken bone broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Add the kidney beans and stir to combine all the lovely ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring your chili to a hearty boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Final Touches: Once it’s thickened up a bit, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove any large, bay leaves if you used them, then serve hot and enjoy!