Chili For Two

This chili for two recipe is a fast, one-pot dinner using standard store cupboard spices. It’s so easy to prepare that you’ll forget just how complicated some other cooks make their signature chili. Let everyone else debate about beans, cuts of beef, and what secret spice blend to include. The only people this recipe needs to please are you and someone special.

The purpose of this homemade chili recipe is to serve up an effortless weeknight dinner that’s comforting and tasty. Feel free, however, to take your time and customize your spices or other ingredients. You might even want to prepare some ahead for your next dinner for two.

Ingredients for Chili for Two

• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef so that your chili for two is full of flavor but not drowning in oil.
• Onion: Chop a white onion for its sweet flavor and soft texture.
• Garlic: Mince a garlic clove or two for aroma.
• Chili beans: These are usually pinto beans in a tangy sauce with varying levels of spiciness. Keep that sauce.
• Diced tomatoes: Don’t drain your can of tomatoes, as they will break down to make a thick sauce.
• Chili powder: This bright red powder gives an instant kick of heat.
• Cumin: Ground cumin adds a recognizable aroma and lingering background smokiness.
• Optional: Sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro for topping.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the ground beef and seasoning

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In a large saucepan, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Add the minced garlic and cook one minute longer. Drain any fat and stir in the chili beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder and cumin. Bring to a boil.

Editor’s Tip: Brown the meat to get a fuller flavor by leaving it alone in the saucepan before you first stir it. That surface will be crispy and a little sweet.

Step 2: Simmer the chili

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Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the aromas are building. Serve and top with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.

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Recipe Variations

• Slow down: Try our slow cooker chili recipe if you want a thick, unctuous chili waiting for the two of you when you get home.
• Change the beans: Everyone has their favorite type of beans for a chili recipe. Kidney beans, black beans or a bean medley are all worthy variations.
• Add peppers: If you’re using tomatoes, you might as well add chopped bell peppers, spicier poblano or smoky roasted chipotle peppers for more depth of flavor.

How to Store Chili for Two

Allow your chili for two to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s good for four to five days, which is why it’s such a popular recipe to batch cook and dip into during the week.

Can you freeze chili for two?

Ground beef, tomato sauce and beans all freeze well. Allow it to cool and store in a freezer-safe container for up to six months. You might lose a little of the flavor the longer you store it. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Chili for Two Tips

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What can you serve with beef chili for two?

This is quite a heavy and hearty dish even shared among two, but if you want something on the side you can serve it with cornbread or warm tortillas. You could even use your homemade chili as the signature topping in a chili dog or Coney-style hot dog.

Do I have to use ground beef for this chili recipe for two?

For a leaner version, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef. It’s a good idea to increase the seasoning to compensate for the loss of fatty flavor. Also, you don’t have to use ground beef. Stewed cube beef is wonderful, although you’ll have to slow-cook it for longer.

How can I punch up the flavors?

Everyone seems to have their own secret ingredient for a homemade beef chili. If you like strong aromas, try adding dry spices such as turmeric or garam masala. If you like it sweet and tangy, add a little ketchup or hot sauce. And if you like it really creamy, trust us when we say peanut butter works wonders in a meaty chili (but make sure everyone is aware it contains nuts).