Lighter Beef Chili Recipe

Name: Lighter Beef Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, such as safflower; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, chopped; coarse salt; ground pepper; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 lb ground sirloin; 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with juice; 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained

Servings: persons

1 tablespoon vegetable oil, such as safflower
1 medium onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, chopped
coarse salt
ground pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 lb ground sirloin
2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with juice
2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained

1
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat oil over medium-high.
2
Add onion and garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
3
Cook until softened, 3 to 5 minutes.
4
Add tomato paste, chili powder, and cocoa powder.
5
Cook, stirring, until mixture is fragrant, about 1 minute.
6
Add beef, and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, 3 to 5 minutes.
7
Add tomatoes (with their juice) and beans.
8
Bring to a boil over high; reduce to a simmer, and cook until chili is slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes.
9
Serve with toppings, if desired.

281

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, such as safflower, 1 medium onion, chopped, 4 garlic cloves, chopped, coarse salt, and more.

Yes, Lighter Beef Chili falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Lighter Beef Chili

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions