Name: Healthy Harvest Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 small onions (300 g), diced; 1 lb 93/7 lean ground beef; 2 bell peppers (400 g), diced; 2 large carrots (170 g), sliced; 3 celery stalks (190 g), diced; 1 medium sweet potato (250 g), cubed; 2 cups beef broth (480 ml); 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes in juices; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 3 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chili is a healthier twist on the traditional version, using lean ground beef and a variety of nutrient-rich vegetables. The addition of sweet potato provides natural sweetness and added fiber, while the spices bring warmth and depth to every bite. It’s also a one-pot meal that’s simple to prepare and great for meal prep, making it both delicious and practical.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cloves garlic, minced
2 small onions (300g), diced
1 lb 93/7 lean ground beef
2 bell peppers (400g), diced
2 large carrots (170g), sliced
3 celery stalks (190g), diced
1 medium sweet potato (250g), cubed
2 cups beef broth (480ml)
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes in juices
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper

Directions

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the onions and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Stir in the bell peppers, carrots, celery, and sweet potato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir until the vegetables and meat are well coated with the spices.
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 5 minutes

Variations

Make it vegetarian by swapping the beef for lentils, quinoa, or extra beans.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add a can of kidney beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber.
Spice it up with cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, or diced jalapeños.
Garnish with toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, cilantro, or Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well as a substitute.

Is this chili spicy?

No, this recipe is mild. You can increase heat by adding cayenne or hot sauce.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Absolutely, kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans make great additions.

How do I thicken chili if it’s too thin?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, green onions, or tortilla chips.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and makes the chili leaner.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily just use a large enough pot.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this chili freezes very well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Healthy Harvest Chili is a flavorful, wholesome meal that’s both comforting and nourishing. With lean beef, a rainbow of vegetables, and a perfectly spiced broth, it’s a satisfying dish for any season. Whether you serve it fresh off the stove, reheat leftovers for a quick meal, or freeze portions for later, this chili is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.