Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Skillet Beef Chili

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Hearty, flavorful, and simple to prepare, this Skillet Beef Chili is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead for the week. Made in one pan with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and warm spices, it’s a comforting classic topped with crispy Smiles for a fun twist.

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort to the dinner table. This version keeps things simple while delivering rich, smoky flavor in every bite. It’s made entirely in a skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner with your family.

The crispy Smiles on top add texture and make chili night extra fun — especially for kids!

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (add 1 more teaspoon for extra heat)

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 2 teaspoons cumin

  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 (15-ounce) can chopped tomatoes (fire-roasted for deeper flavor)

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 1/2 pound McCain Smiles

Optional Toppings:
Sour cream, grated mozzarella, cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, diced tomatoes, diced onion

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef, salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking the beef apart, until fully browned.

Step 4: Simmer

Stir in the beans, chopped tomatoes, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes to allow the chili to thicken slightly and heat through.

Step 5: Cook the Smiles

While the chili cooks, prepare the Smiles in an air fryer or oven according to package directions until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon chili into bowls and top with crispy Smiles. Serve with toppings on the side so everyone can customize their bowl.

Notes

Adjust the Thickness

Simmer uncovered for a thicker, heartier chili. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of broth.

Make It Ahead

Chili tastes even better the next day. Double the batch and freeze some for later — just be sure to use a larger pot if doubling.

Create a Chili Bar

Set out toppings and let everyone build their own bowl. It makes dinner interactive and fun for kids.

Storage

Allow chili to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop until warmed through. Add freshly cooked Smiles before serving.

Freezing

Store cooled chili (without Smiles) in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Prepare Smiles fresh on serving day so they stay crispy.

Find it online: https://onepotato.com/easy-skillet-beef-chili/

Subscribe Here

Want to be a guest writer ?

Check out our Community Voices Info Page, and get in touch.

Advertise with Us

One Potato is a community and newsletter written by real people who are parents, having real conversations about our families, cooking traditions, and cultures. We are passionate about raising healthy and happy kids while navigating the challenges of picky eaters, dietary restrictions, busy schedules, and daily life.

One Potato

hello@onepotato.com

Visit One Potato