Hamburger Meat Chili Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat Chili Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Moments

I love making my Hamburger Meat Chili Skillet on busy weeknights when I want something comforting and filling without spending too much time in the kitchen. This dish combines the hearty flavors of savory hamburger meat with zesty chili spices, all cooked in one skillet for an easy cleanup. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for those chilly evenings or last-minute gatherings, this skillet meal quickly becomes a family favorite.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:29:36.330Z

When I first tried making a chili skillet, I didn’t expect it to be such a hit! I experimented with different spices, and discovered that using a blend of chili powder and cumin really elevates the flavor. Not only does it warm up the dish, but it also gives that comforting, cozy feeling I crave in winter. Plus, cooking everything in one pan allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Another tip I learned is to add fresh ingredients like bell peppers and onions toward the end of cooking. This keeps their crunch and brightens up the dish, enhancing the overall texture and flavor. Now, whenever I make this chili skillet, I can’t help but feel a sense of joy around the dining table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory and spicy flavors that warm you right up
One-pan convenience makes cleanup a breeze
Perfect for meal prep or family dinners

Ingredients in Focus

The star of this Hamburger Meat Chili Skillet is, without a doubt, the ground beef. I prefer using an 80/20 blend for optimal flavor and moisture. The fat adds richness to the dish and also helps the spices adhere better. If you're looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken can work as substitutes, but they may require a bit more seasoning to enhance their flavor.

Beans are an essential component of chili, lending both texture and protein. Kidney beans are traditional, but you might consider using black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Make sure to rinse and drain your beans to remove excess sodium, which can make the dish too salty. This not only helps maintain the overall flavor balance but also gives you control over the dish's final taste.

Cooking Tips

When cooking the beef, ensure it's crumbled well while browning. This allows for even cooking and better absorption of flavors from the spices and vegetables. A wooden spoon or spatula works great for breaking it apart. Aim for a nice brown color without burning it; this typically takes about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. If you notice any parts sticking to the pan, gently scrape them off to incorporate those flavorful bits into the chili.

Simmering is crucial to melding flavors in this dish. After adding the diced tomatoes, beans, and broth, let it simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. This reduces the liquid slightly and concentrates the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if your skillet isn’t non-stick. You’re looking for a slightly thickened sauce, so don’t rush this step—taking the time here pays off immensely in taste.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Hamburger Meat Chili Skillet

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.

Season and Simmer

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this chili by adding your favorite beans or using a mixture of meats for richer flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet meal shines when served hot, but don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings. Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can enhance the creaminess while sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spice. For a fresh touch, a sprinkling of green onions or chopped cilantro will brighten the dish. You might even want to try serving it over a bed of rice or with a side of cornbread for a full meal experience.

If you have leftovers, they can be perfect for lunch the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier on the second day. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen it up if it’s thickened too much.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Consider adjusting the heat level to your liking. If you enjoy spicy food, adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the kick of your chili. Additionally, experimenting with other spices such as smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a whole new depth of flavor to the dish, catering to your personal taste.

For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for a mix of sauteed mushrooms and lentils. These ingredients bring a hearty texture similar to ground beef and absorb the chili spices beautifully. Don't be afraid to get inventive with your veggie mix; even adding zucchini or corn in place of the beans can bring exciting new notes to this classic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option and works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or extra beans and add more vegetables.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the chili cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips for a fun twist.