If you love a meal that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in a single pan, you have to try One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef. This hearty dish layers sweet, smoky, and savory notes all in one comforting, fuss-free dinner. You get tender ground beef, a gentle heat from warm spices, the natural sweetness of honey, and a finishing punch of fresh herbs. The best part? It’s a choose-your-own-adventure for serving—pile it over fluffy rice, spoon it atop baked potatoes, or scoop it up with warm cornbread. One bite, and this skillet supper just might become your go-to favorite.

One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple ingredients working together to create something magical. Each component plays a starring role, whether it’s for flavor, body, or a pop of color that makes the One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef so satisfying.

Ground beef (1 pound, 85% lean): Provides richness and absorbs all those delicious smoky and sweet flavors.
Yellow onion (1 small, finely diced): Gives the dish a mellow aromatic foundation and subtle sweetness.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds sharp, savory undertones and depth.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps everything sizzle and prevents sticking.
Chili powder (1 tablespoon): Delivers that classic, robust chili taste.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses every bite with a hint of woodsy smoke.
Cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Adds earthiness and warmth to round out the spice blend.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For extra heat, if you like your chili with a kick!
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens umami and boosts the savory factor.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Balances the spice with a gentle natural sweetness.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces, with juice): Brings juicy acidity and color to the skillet.
Kidney beans (1 can, 15 ounces, drained and rinsed): Adds hearty texture and classic chili character.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances and marries all the flavors together.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle punchy finish.
Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional): A fresh, herby lift right before serving.

How to Make One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In your largest, sturdiest skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Toss in the diced onion and stir frequently for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until everything turns soft and translucent. Then, sprinkle in the minced garlic and keep it moving for another 30 seconds, enjoying that irresistible aroma as it fills the kitchen.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the sizzling onion and garlic. Break it up with your spatula or spoon so it cooks evenly. Sear and stir until the meat is no longer pink and any excess moisture has evaporated—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain a bit away so your One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef isn’t greasy.

Step 3: Add Spices

Now it’s time to unlock the flavor! Sprinkle in your chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, optional cayenne, plus the salt and black pepper. Stir confidently, letting every piece of beef get wrapped in the rich, fragrant spice mixture for that unmistakable depth.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

It’s sauce magic time. Squeeze in the tomato paste, pour over the soy sauce, and drizzle in the honey. Stir and watch as everything transforms into a thick, glossy mixture that smells like pure comfort.

Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all) along with your drained and rinsed kidney beans. Give it all a thorough mix, then let your One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef bubble gently, uncovered, for about 10 to 15 minutes. This is when it thickens up beautifully, and the flavors meld perfectly. Taste and tweak the seasoning if needed, adding a touch more salt or chili powder if you crave extra oomph.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Take the skillet off heat and, if you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Serve it right away, piping hot and ready to impress. Whether you’re eating straight from the pan or spooning over your favorite side, you can practically taste the care in every mouthful.

How to Serve One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef

Garnishes

For that extra pop of freshness, scatter chopped cilantro across the chili right before serving. If you want a creamy finish, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Sliced jalapeños or thinly sliced scallions also offer color, flavor, and a little extra zing to the bowl.

Side Dishes

The beauty of One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is how adaptable it can be. Pair it with fluffy steamed rice, spoon it over warm cornbread, or serve alongside a simple green salad for balance. It’s also fantastic mounded onto baked potatoes or crisp tortilla chips for a heartier meal or a fun family dinner twist.

Creative Ways to Present

This chili isn’t just for bowls! Try serving it family-style in the skillet at the table, or spoon it into baked sweet potato halves for a sweet and savory surprise. Ladle it into mini bread bowls for parties, or make loaded chili nachos for a game night treat. Leftovers also make a delicious topping for hot dogs or stuffed peppers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef, you’re in luck—flavors deepen even more after a night in the fridge! Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It’s ideal for weekday lunches or speedy repeat dinners.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Portion cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use your microwave’s defrost function for a quick fix anytime you need comfort food.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the chili gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often until it’s hot all the way through. You can also microwave portions, covering them loosely to avoid splatters. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it to your liking.

FAQs

Can I make One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or use extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and diced zucchini to make this chili meat-free and just as hearty.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is naturally gluten-free, but be sure your soy sauce is a gluten-free version, or swap in tamari to avoid any trace of gluten.

How spicy is the chili?

The chili has a mild to moderate heat thanks to the chili powder and smoked paprika—with a little kick if you opt to use the cayenne. For a spicier version, add more cayenne or toss in some fresh jalapeños with the onions.

Can I use a different type Main Course

Definitely! While kidney beans are classic, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas if you’d like. It’s a fun way to mix up the texture or make use of what you have on hand.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

No worries—regular paprika works, though you’ll miss that signature smoky undertone. A splash of liquid smoke or a touch more chili powder can help capture a similar effect.

Final Thoughts

One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is the kind of dish that brings people together, filling your kitchen with warmth and pure deliciousness. It’s simple, packed with bold flavors, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it a new staple at your table—there’s just something special about a home-cooked meal that everyone can love, all from one trusty skillet!

One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A flavorful and easy-to-make one-skillet dish, this Smoky Honey Chili Beef combines ground beef with a sweet and smoky chili sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef, 85% lean
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings:

1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Sauce and Garnish:

1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook onion in olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Brown ground beef, breaking it apart, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Seasonings: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Add tomato paste, soy sauce, and honey. Mix well.
Simmer: Pour in diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer, cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.