Happy New Year! If you’ve been cooking a lot lately and need a simple, comforting meal, this Dump-In Chili is an ideal choice. It’s hearty, forgiving, and perfect for cold weather—especially when the temperature drops into the teens like it has here in Missouri. I made this after feeling under the weather, and it warmed me right up.
This chili is named “Dump-In” because you literally add the ingredients to the pot and let it simmer. It’s a flexible recipe: I usually use ground turkey for a lower-fat option, but you can substitute ground beef or use a mix of meats. Adjust the heat and seasoning to your taste.
Dump-In Chili
Serves 4
Ingredients:
2 pounds ground turkey
1 28 oz can tomato sauce
2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes with garlic and onion
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 (15 oz) can chili beans (medium heat)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup Kansas City–style BBQ sauce
1/4 cup hot BBQ sauce (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. If using ground turkey, spray a large stockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Add the ground turkey and pour in the can of tomato sauce. Mix gently and begin cooking. Starting with the turkey and tomato sauce together helps the turkey break into small pieces and prevents large, dry clumps.
2. Once the turkey is combined with the tomato sauce and starting to cook through, add the two cans of diced tomatoes, the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles, the chili beans, sugar, Kansas City–style BBQ sauce, and hot BBQ sauce if you want more heat.
3. Bring the chili to a simmer and cook uncovered for at least one hour. The longer it cooks, the more concentrated the flavors become. For a quick meal you can start it around 4:00 p.m. and eat by 5:30 p.m., but for a richer texture and thicker consistency, let it simmer on low for 3 to 4 hours.
4. If you prefer a milder chili, omit the hot BBQ sauce and choose mild beans instead of medium. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Serve garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or any toppings you prefer. I like to serve crostini or crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Note: This recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings or leftovers.
Enjoy this simple, warming chili whenever you need a comforting, low-effort meal.