Introduction
Looking for a hot, comforting meal that won’t destroy your student budget? Student chili con carne is a classic recipe that’s perfect for tight schedules, tight wallets, and tiny kitchens. With a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a spicy, filling dish that keeps you warm and full.
Table of Contents
What Is Chili Con Carne?
Chili con carne literally means “chili with meat” in Spanish. It’s a hearty stew traditionally made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices. Though it has Mexican roots, the modern version is considered a Tex-Mex classic—popular for being flavorful, filling, and easy to customize. Ideal for student cooking, it’s a dish that blends convenience with big taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥛 Super cheap ingredients: canned beans, tomatoes, and ground meat
- ⏲ Ready in under 30 minutes
- ❄️ Great for leftovers and meal prep
- 🍽️ Hearty, warming, and flavorful
- 🌶 Customizable to what you have at home
Ingredients and Equipment You Need
🛒 Ingredients (for 2-3 servings)
- 250 g ground beef (or tofu/lentils for a veggie version)
- 1 can of red kidney beans
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbsp oil
- Spices: cumin, paprika, chili powder (optional)
- Salt & pepper
🍳 Equipment
- 1 frying pan or saucepan
- 1 chopping board + knife
- 1 spoon for stirring
Step-by-Step: How to Make Student Chili Con Carne
- Chop the onion and garlic. Sauté in a bit of oil until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, drained beans, and spices.
- Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot!
🔧 Tip: Serve with rice, bread, or tortilla chips to make it a complete meal.
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Student Chili Con Carne: Easy, Cheap, and Delicious
A quick and budget-friendly Tex-Mex classic made for student life. This student chili con carne is warm, filling, and perfect for busy days and meal prep.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
Ingredients
250 g ground beef (or lentils/tofu for veggie version)
1 can red kidney beans
1 can chopped tomatoes
1 onion
1 garlic clove
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Chili powder (optional)
Salt & pepper
Instructions
Chop the onion and garlic. Sauté in oil until soft.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in tomatoes, beans, and spices.
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
Serve with rice, tortilla chips, or bread. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later. Great for batch cooking!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Vegetarian
Budget-Friendly Tips and Student Hacks
- No meat? Use lentils, extra beans, or tofu crumbs.
- Missing onions or garlic? Garlic powder works in a pinch.
- No spices? Even salt, pepper, and tomato sauce can do the trick.
- Cooking for the week? Double the recipe and store portions.
- Leftover veggies? Toss them in to reduce food waste.
More Budget-Friendly Dinners
For more easy and affordable ideas like this one, check out our budget-friendly slow cooker dinner recipes — perfect if you want to set it and forget it!
Curious Questions Students Might Ask
Is chili con carne originally Mexican or American?
Great question! While chili con carne is inspired by Mexican flavors, the version we know today is a Tex-Mex dish—it actually originated in Texas. It mixes native chili spices with meat and beans, but it’s not something you’d traditionally find in authentic Mexican cuisine.
Can I eat chili con carne cold or use it differently?
Yes! While it’s usually eaten hot, chili con carne is super versatile. You can use it cold as a burrito filling, spread it on toast, or even use it as a base for nachos. Think beyond the bowl and get creative with your leftovers.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chili con carne without meat?
Totally. Just use canned lentils, tofu, or more beans. It’s just as satisfying!
How long does chili con carne last in the fridge?
It keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it.
Do I have to eat it with rice?
Not at all. Try it with bread, a tortilla wrap, or on its own.
How do I make it less spicy?
Skip the chili powder or balance with a spoonful of cream, yogurt, or cheese.
Conclusion
Student chili con carne is a lifesaver for students: quick to make, easy to adapt, and super budget-friendly. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a fast dinner fix, this recipe hits the spot every time.
🚀 Try it tonight and add it to your list of go-to student meals. Once you master student chili con carne, you’ll always have a warm, tasty dish up your sleeve!