What makes Mexican Chili different from traditional chili?

Mexican Chili typically includes ingredients like chili beans, corn, green chilies, taco seasoning, and even ranch seasoning mix, giving it a spicier, zestier flavor profile compared to traditional chili. It's also often served in tostada bowls and topped with classic Tex-Mex garnishes like avocado, jalapeños, and sour cream.

Can I make this Mexican Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the ground beef and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on high for 2–3 hours or low for 4–5 hours. This method deepens the flavor and makes it even more convenient for busy days.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover Mexican Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the texture

Mexican Chili – Easy Recipe Packed with Flavor

Name: Mexican Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 15 oz kidney beans: adds creamy texture and hearty bite; 15 oz black beans: provides earthy flavor and boosts fiber; 15 oz refried beans: thickens the chili and adds smooth consistency; 15 oz Mexican-style chili beans: brings built-in spices and bold flavor; 15 oz corn: adds subtle sweetness and a pop of texture; 15 oz diced tomatoes: adds acidity and freshness; 8 oz tomato sauce: creates a smooth base for the chili; 4 oz chopped green chilies: adds mild heat and aromatic notes; 1 cup water: balances the thickness and blends flavors; 1 packet taco seasoning mix: adds signature Tex-Mex spice; 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch dry mix: brings a tangy, creamy flavor; 1 lb lean ground beef: classic protein for a hearty meal; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped: adds depth and savory sweetness; 6 tostada bowls: for serving and added crunch

Description

This Mexican Chili is a quick, hearty, and flavor-packed one-pot meal made with three types of beans, lean ground beef, and a blend of taco and ranch seasonings. It’s high in fiber, low in fat, and perfect for easy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Serve in tostada bowls with your favorite toppings for a festive Tex-Mex experience.

Ingredients

Scale

15 oz kidney beans: adds creamy texture and hearty bite
15 oz black beans: provides earthy flavor and boosts fiber
15 oz refried beans: thickens the chili and adds smooth consistency
15 oz Mexican-style chili beans: brings built-in spices and bold flavor
15 oz corn: adds subtle sweetness and a pop of texture
15 oz diced tomatoes: adds acidity and freshness
8 oz tomato sauce: creates a smooth base for the chili
4 oz chopped green chilies: adds mild heat and aromatic notes
1 cup water: balances the thickness and blends flavors
1 packet taco seasoning mix: adds signature Tex-Mex spice
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch dry mix: brings a tangy, creamy flavor
1 lb lean ground beef: classic protein for a hearty meal
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped: adds depth and savory sweetness
6 tostada bowls: for serving and added crunch

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Instructions

In a large cooking pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
Add all remaining ingredients to the pot, including the beans, corn, tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, water, taco seasoning, and ranch mix. Do not drain the cans.
Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Spoon the chili into tostada bowls and serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

You can make this in a slow cooker by browning the meat and combining all ingredients in the crockpot. Cook on high for 2–3 hours.
To make it vegetarian, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
Top with sour cream, cheese, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, jalapeños, or salsa for extra taste and texture.
This recipe freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 590 kcal
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 1774 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 88 g
Fiber: 23 g
Protein: 40 g
Cholesterol: 47 mg