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
Units
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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