This Classic Hearty Beef Chili is a deliciously comforting and flavorful dish perfect for cooler days or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. Packed with tender ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato base, this chili is layered with spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika to give it that classic chili taste with a touch of warmth. Whether you’re serving it for game day, a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a one-pot meal that’s ready in under an hour, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas as it cooks.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• Spices:
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

1. Brown the Beef – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onion, Bell Pepper, and Garlic – Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Seasonings

1. Add Tomatoes and Beans – Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with juice, the tomato sauce, drained kidney beans, and pinto beans. Stir to combine all ingredients.
2. Add Spices and Beef Broth – Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. If you like a slight sweetness to balance the acidity, add 1 tsp of sugar as well. Pour in the beef broth and stir well.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

1. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer – Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Adjust Seasonings and Serve

1. Taste and Adjust Seasonings – Taste the chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or any other spices as needed to suit your preference.
2. Garnish and Serve – Ladle the chili into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Pair with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~300
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 23g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for beef. Just be mindful that the flavor might be milder, so you may want to increase the spices slightly.

Q: How can I make this chili spicier?
A: For more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Adjust to your desired spice level.

Q: Can I use other types of beans?
A: Absolutely! Black beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas can be used. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have available.

Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, this chili freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Tips for Making the Best Chili:

1. Choose Lean Ground Beef – 85% lean ground beef provides a good balance of flavor and richness without too much grease.
2. Don’t Skimp on Spices – Spices are key to a flavorful chili. Adjust them according to your taste, but make sure to add enough chili powder for that classic chili flavor.
3. Simmer for Extra Flavor – While this chili is ready in under an hour, letting it simmer longer allows the flavors to deepen. If you have the time, try cooking it on low for an additional 15-20 minutes.
4. Use Beef Broth for Richness – Beef broth adds depth to the chili, but if you’re in a pinch, water works too. You can also try chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
5. Add a Sweetener to Balance Acidity – A small amount of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, making the chili taste well-rounded.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer: Chili freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled chili in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, leaving a bit of space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat chili on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it’s too thick.

Conclusion:

Classic Hearty Beef Chili is an easy-to-make, wholesome meal that’s satisfying, delicious, and ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. With its tender beef, beans, and rich tomato base, each spoonful delivers warmth and comfort. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika provides depth and a hint of smokiness that’s balanced by the sweetness of the corn and the slight acidity from the tomatoes. This chili recipe is versatile and adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you’re making it for a family meal, game day, or a cozy night in, this chili is sure to be a hit. Serve it with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado, and enjoy a hearty bowl that will keep you coming back for more. Give this recipe a try, and experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite!