Description
Hearty Mexican-inspired “Taco Chili” brings zesty southwestern comfort to dinner tables with bold spices and rich protein-packed goodness. Savor this one-pot wonder that combines classic taco flavors with comforting chili warmth, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, creating a sizzling foundation for the robust flavors.
- Sauté diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic essence.
- Add ground beef to the vegetable mixture, breaking it into crumbly pieces and browning thoroughly until no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Incorporate taco seasoning and ranch seasoning mix, stirring vigorously to coat the meat and vegetables with a complex, zesty blend of spices.
- Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chilies, and salsa, creating a rich, layered liquid base for the chili.
- Drain and rinse black beans and kidney beans, then gently fold them into the simmering mixture.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for added texture and freshness.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the chili without compromising flavor.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, diet-friendly alternative that maintains the dish’s robust texture.
- Test the bean consistency by gently pressing them during cooking; they should be tender but not mushy, ensuring a perfect mouthfeel.
- Enhance meal prep efficiency by making a double batch and freezing portions for quick future meals, as the chili’s flavors develop even more after cooling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg