This is the chili you make when it’s cold outside and you want something warm, comforting, and ridiculously easy. Made with ground pork, tomato juice, and mild chili seasoning, this keep-you-warm chili is cozy, flavorful, and perfect for kids — especially when everyone builds their own bowl with familiar toppings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
Total Time: 40–55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: kid friendly chili, easy chili, winter chili

Ingredients

1½ lbs ground pork
1 small onion, diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 packets mild chili seasoning
46 oz tomato juice
Salt & pepper, to taste

Toppings (optional, build-your-own):

Shredded cheese
Diced onion
Fresh cilantro
Fritos
Sour cream

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil. Sauté the diced onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Add the ground pork and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Sprinkle in both mild chili seasoning packets and stir until the meat is evenly coated.
Stir in the black beans and pour in the tomato juice.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm and top with cheese, Fritos, sour cream, onion, and cilantro.

Notes

Mild chili seasoning keeps this recipe kid-friendly.
For thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes.
This chili tastes even better the next day.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for later.