There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm, flavorful bowl of beef chili. Perfect for cold nights, game days, or just a cozy family dinner, this classic dish is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Its rich combination of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a robust flavor profile that’s both comforting and invigorating.
Chili is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the level of heat to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it mild and creamy or bold and spicy, this recipe is your ultimate guide to crafting a perfect bowl of beef chili every time.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado slices
- Tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. - Add Vegetables and Spices:
Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and the vegetables to soften slightly. - Combine the Ingredients:
Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir well to combine. - Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - Thicken and Adjust:
Remove the lid and let the chili simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices if desired. - Serve:
Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve hot with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
DISH PRESENTATION PARAGRAPHS
This hearty Beef Chili is a perfect combination of tender ground beef, smoky spices, and a rich tomato base. Topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream, it becomes an irresistible bowl of comfort food.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth of taste that warms the soul. Whether you enjoy it with a side of cornbread or on its own, this chili is ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or a cozy night in
Cooking Tips
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper or adding a mild chili powder blend. For extra heat, include diced fresh chilies or a splash of hot sauce.
- Let It Sit: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead for an enhanced taste experience.
- Thickening Tips: If your chili is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in a slurry made of cornstarch and water.
- Enhance the Flavor: Adding a splash of vinegar or lime juice at the end of cooking can brighten the flavors.
- Make It Smoky: A few drops of liquid smoke or a pinch of chipotle powder can add a rich, smoky undertone.
10 Alternative Names for the Dish:
- Smoky Ground Beef Chili
- Classic Hearty Chili Bowl
- Slow-Cooked Spicy Chili
- Beef and Bean Chili Comfort
- Savory Tomato-Based Chili
- Flavor-Packed Chili Con Carne
- Rustic Homestyle Chili
- Ground Beef and Bean Stew
- Spicy Hearty Chili Delight
- Weeknight Beef Chili Feast
Nutritional Benefits
This beef chili recipe is more than just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional value:
- Protein: Ground beef and beans provide a substantial protein boost, keeping you fuller for longer.
- Fiber: Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Bell peppers and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and iron.
- Low Sugar: This recipe contains minimal added sugar, making it a healthier choice compared to store-bought chili mixes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of chili to make you feel cozy on a chilly day.
- Customizable: Tailor the spice level, toppings, and ingredients to your preferences.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Chili stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an ideal option for meal prepping.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided your canned goods are certified gluten-free.
- High Protein: With a mix of ground beef and beans, this chili is protein-packed.
- Dairy-Free Options: Skip the cheese and sour cream toppings for a dairy-free meal.
- Low Carb-Friendly: Reduce the beans or replace them with extra vegetables for a lower-carb version.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a hearty and flavorful dish that appeals to a wide audience. By using a balance of fresh vegetables and canned goods, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Simmering the chili allows the spices to infuse deeply, creating a complex and satisfying taste. The optional toppings provide a customizable element, allowing everyone to create their perfect bowl.
Conclusion
This Spicy and Hearty Beef Chili is a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. With its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and customizable nature, it’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prepping. Serve it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to delight.
Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or new to the dish, this recipe is an easy way to bring a touch of warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy!
Print
Spicy and Hearty Beef Chili: A Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 1hr 20mins
Description
There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm, flavorful bowl of beef chili. Perfect for cold nights, game days, or just a cozy family dinner, this classic dish is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Its rich combination of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a robust flavor profile that’s both comforting and invigorating.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado slices
- Tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. - Add Vegetables and Spices:
Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and the vegetables to soften slightly. - Combine the Ingredients:
Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir well to combine. - Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - Thicken and Adjust:
Remove the lid and let the chili simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices if desired. - Serve:
Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve hot with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side.
- Prep Time: 20mins
- Cook Time: 1hr