High Protein Weeknight Ground Beef Chili is one of those dinners you don’t have to overthink. You get home tired and just want something warm and filling that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night.
This chili really hits the spot. It uses basic ingredients you probably already have and comes together fast.
To make this meal you will need ground beef, chili beans, onion, garlic, and tomato paste. Nothing fancy, just the classics. Everything goes into one pot.
This chili makes great leftovers. It’s perfect for lunches or a second dinner later in the week.
If you like meals that reheat well and don’t fall apart after a day in the fridge, this one’s for you. Keep this recipe handy for those nights when you want something comforting, filling, and on the table in about 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Weeknight Ground Beef Chili
Ready Fast
This chili is done in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
One-Pot Meal
Everything cooks in a single saucepan, which keeps cleanup simple.
Filling and Satisfying
The mix of ground beef and beans makes this chili hearty enough for dinner.
Good for Leftovers
It reheats well, making it useful for lunches or another night’s meal.

Ingredient Substitutions
Ground Beef
Use lean ground turkey if needed.
Chili Beans
Substitute plain kidney beans or pinto beans with extra chili powder.
Beef Stock
Use water or low-sodium broth if stock is not available.
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High Protein Weeknight Ground Beef Chili
Recipes are written with one action per step for accessibility. Short lines. Fewer rereads. A calmer kitchen on mobile or desktop.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1½ cup beef stock
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 16 ounces chili beans – spicy
- 6 ounces tomato paste
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, place the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the beef is fully cooked and the onion softens.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a colander and drain the grease. Rinse briefly with hot water.
- Return the beef mixture to the saucepan.
- Add the beef stock, tomato paste, chili beans with liquid, chili powder, and salt.
- Stir until evenly mixed.
- Cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Drain and Rinse the Beef – Draining and rinsing the cooked beef reduces extra grease and keeps the chili lighter. Simmer Time – Letting the chili simmer the full 15 minutes helps the flavors blend evenly. Adjust the Heat – Use mild or spicy chili beans depending on your preference.Storing and Reheating
Storing – Place cooled chili in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat on Stovetop – Place a serving in a saucepan with 1 to 2 tablespoons water. Warm over low heat, stirring until heated through.You May Also Like







