Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Nothing warms the soul like a bowl of Hearty Beef and Bean Chili. This classic dish combines robust flavors, tender beans, and savory ground beef, creating a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable toppings, this chili recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef and Bean Chili
This chili is the ultimate comfort food, offering bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Flavorful and Hearty: With ground beef, a blend of spices, and two types of beans, this chili is rich and filling.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable Toppings: From shredded cheese to tortilla chips, you can personalize this dish to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family meals, game-day parties, or meal prepping for the week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for quick, reheatable meals.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors. The ground beef provides a hearty base, while the combination of kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn adds texture and nutrition. Cooking the onion, bell pepper, and garlic together enhances the chili’s depth, while the tomato paste, beef broth, and spices create a rich, flavorful sauce. Simmering the chili allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious beef and bean chili:
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty, savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the beef and vegetables.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the chili with robust, aromatic depth.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and a creamy texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Provides earthy, hearty flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds tanginess and richness to the base.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a rich, savory base.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Enhances the depth of flavor and thickens the chili.
- 2 tbsp chili powder: Provides smoky, spicy warmth.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds earthy, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Lends a subtle, smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the flavors.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional): Adds smoky, crispy indulgence.
- Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips.
How to Make Hearty Beef and Bean Chili
Follow these simple steps to create a bowl of chili that’s bursting with flavor:
1. Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If needed, drain any excess fat before proceeding.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Beans and Base
Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, corn, beef broth, and tomato paste. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Season the Chili
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
5. Simmer and Thicken
Bring the chili to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or mash some of the beans with a spoon.
6. Add Toppings and Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Beef and Bean Chili
- Choose Quality Ground Beef: For the best flavor, use lean ground beef or ground chuck.
- Simmer for Flavor: The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
- Make It Your Own: Add diced jalapeños for heat, or swap the kidney and pinto beans for black beans or chickpeas.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly opened spices make a big difference in flavor intensity.
- Customize the Toppings: Experiment with avocado slices, hot sauce, or pickled jalapeños for added flair.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty chili with classic sides and toppings for a complete, satisfying meal:
- Cornbread: A slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for added comfort.
- Green Salad: A crisp, tangy salad balances the richness of the chili.
- Baked Potatoes: Spoon the chili over baked potatoes for a hearty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this chili ahead of time?
A: Yes! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this chili?
A: Absolutely. Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or additional beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q: How can I adjust the spice level?
A: For milder chili, reduce the chili powder and omit smoked paprika. For spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Q: What can I use instead of beef broth?
A: Chicken broth or vegetable broth works well as substitutes.
Q: Can I cook 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 high for 3-4 hours.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Beef and Bean Chili is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky spices, tender beans, and savory ground beef in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a game-day gathering, this chili is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to impress.
Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a bowl of homemade chili. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the delicious comfort of this classic recipe!
Print
Hearty Beef and Bean Chili: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
This hearty beef and bean chili combines tender ground beef, savory beans, and smoky spices in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s a comforting, customizable classic topped with your favorite garnishes!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
– Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, corn, beef broth, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld together and the chili thickens.
5. Serve the chili in bowls and top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips if desired.
Notes
### Tip:
Pair with warm cornbread or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the hearty chili.
### Cooking Tip:
For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or mash some of the beans for a creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30