Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of pure comfort! This Homemade Chili Recipe is a hearty classic that brings together tender ground beef, colorful beans, juicy tomatoes, and a blend of signature spices in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or craving something soul-warming on a chilly evening, this recipe will satisfy every time. Let’s pull out the big pot, stir up some anticipation, and enjoy a dish that truly feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating an unforgettable chili is all about using simple, honest ingredients that each play a starring role. Every item in this Homemade Chili Recipe contributes to layers of flavor, building the richness, depth, and heartiness you want in a perfect bowl. Don’t skimp on any—they all matter!

Ground beef: Go for 80/20 for just the right amount of juiciness and flavor.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and a mellow flavor base as it softens and cooks down.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for that unmistakable aromatic punch—you really can’t have chili without it.
Bell pepper: A pop of color and subtle sweetness makes the chili extra vibrant.
Canned diced tomatoes: These provide the perfect blend of tomatoes and juice for a saucy, chunky consistency.
Tomato paste: Just a little goes a long way in deepening the savoriness.
Kidney beans (canned, drained and rinsed): Sturdy, creamy, and classic—don’t skip this chili essential.
Pinto beans (canned, drained and rinsed): Their buttery texture rounds out every bite.
Chili powder: The signature warm spice that gives the Homemade Chili Recipe its kick.
Cumin: Earthy and fragrant, it adds unmistakable depth.
Paprika: Smoky or sweet, your choice—it delivers beautiful color and gentle heat.
Dried oregano: Lends an herbaceous lift that brightens the whole pot.
Salt and black pepper: Don’t underestimate seasoning; these classic basics tie all the flavors together.
Olive oil: Start things off right with a rich, flavorful base for sautéing.
Low-sodium beef broth: Adds richness and helps meld everything into a perfect, scoopable stew.

How to Make Homemade Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in your largest pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about five minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more, careful not to let it burn—this builds the flavor foundation for your Homemade Chili Recipe.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about five to seven minutes, letting some bits get a mild golden sear for extra flavor. Drain any excess fat if needed, but leave a little for richness.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the beef and veggies are evenly coated—the spices will toast briefly in the pot, unleashing their fragrance and infusing the Homemade Chili Recipe with bold, signature flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), and beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift up all those tasty browned bits—it’s where the magic happens!

Step 5: Add Beans and Finish Cooking

Finally, stir in the drained kidney beans and pinto beans. Cover partially and simmer for at least thirty minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavors become—don’t rush it if you have time. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving your hearty Homemade Chili Recipe.

How to Serve Homemade Chili Recipe

Garnishes

This dish is practically begging for a handful of toppings! Sprinkle on shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced green onions, or even a few slices of fresh jalapeño. Each one brings a different texture and flavor, making every bowl of this Homemade Chili Recipe even more exciting.

Side Dishes

Serving chili on its own is wonderful, but pairing it with the right side takes things to another level. Go classic with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. These sides soak up all that rich goodness and round out your meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the bowl? Try ladling this Homemade Chili Recipe over baked potatoes for a filling twist, spooning it onto nachos, or piling it into bread bowls for a show-stopping (and edible) serving vessel. It’s fun, unexpected, and always gets conversation going around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Homemade Chili Recipe actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and meld overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, making lunchtime something to look forward to!

Freezing

Chili is a freezer superstar. Cool the chili completely before portioning it into airtight bags or containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Don’t forget to label it with the date so you can plan your next cozy night in.

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, gently reheat the Homemade Chili Recipe on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first for best texture and quicker warming.

FAQs

Can I make this Homemade Chili Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for extra beans, lentils, or a meat alternative. The process and spices stay the same, so you won’t miss any of the comforting flavors.

How spicy is this chili?

This recipe is flavorful with a gentle heat, but it’s easy to make it milder or hotter. Adjust the chili powder and consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you love extra spice.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! While kidney and pinto beans are traditional, you can mix in black beans, white beans, or even garbanzo beans for a hearty spin on the classic Homemade Chili Recipe.

What’s the best way to thicken chili if it’s too soupy?

If your chili is a bit too liquidy, remove the lid and let it simmer until it reduces to your desired thickness. Alternatively, mash up a spoonful of beans to naturally thicken the mixture.

Is this chili recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely! It keeps beautifully in the fridge or freezer, and you can portion it out for lunches, dinners, or even quick snack attacks throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a deeply satisfying meal that everyone will love, don’t miss out on trying this Homemade Chili Recipe. It’s easy, makes fantastic leftovers, and feels like the culinary equivalent of a big, warm hug. Gather your favorite toppings and sides, then dig in—you’ll be glad you did!

Homemade Chili Recipe