If you’re searching for a soul-warming, family-favorite comfort food, Beef Chili stands out as an absolute must-try. With its bold flavors, tender ground beef, and a rich, tomato-laced sauce packed with hearty beans and smoky spices, it’s the sort of meal that makes your kitchen feel extra cozy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on game day or simply want leftovers to savor throughout the week, this Beef Chili recipe blends simplicity with unforgettable depth of flavor for a truly satisfying bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in this robust lineup of ingredients—each one plays a starring role in crafting the hearty character, color, and crave-worthy taste of Beef Chili. Keeping everything straightforward, this recipe relies on classic pantry staples and fresh touches to ensure big results with minimal fuss.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté your vegetables for a flavor-packed base.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Essential for classic chili flavor and natural sweetness.
- Green bell pepper (chopped): Provides a pop of color and a mild, crisp bite.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth you can’t skip.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The star ingredient that gives Beef Chili its heartiness.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Diced tomatoes (15 oz can): Offers chunkiness and tang to the chili base.
- Kidney beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Their creamy texture and earthy taste absorb the spices beautifully.
- Black beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): They add protein, fiber, and welcome contrast.
- Beef broth (1½ cups): Deepens the savory notes and keeps the chili saucy.
- Chili powder (2 tbsp): The essential spice blend that brings warmth and a mild kick.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Lends toasty flavor and the signature chili aroma.
- Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Imparts subtle smokiness for authentic flair.
- Salt (½ tsp): Brightens up every other flavor in the pot.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ tsp, optional): Perfect for those who love a bold, spicy finish.
- Sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions (for topping): The dream team for creamy, tangy, and fresh contrasts.
How to Make Beef Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these until they soften and start smelling wonderful, which takes about 5 minutes. This easy step lays a flavorful foundation that’ll shine through every bite.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Gently stir in your minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. This quick burst in the pan coaxes out the garlicky aroma that makes any Beef Chili irresistible—just be careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to your veggie mixture, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sear it until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, about 6 to 8 minutes. If you see excess fat, drain it off so you have a rich, full-bodied chili without any greasiness.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1 minute. This tiny step unlocks sweeter, deeper tomato flavors and sets up a luscious, thick sauce—the hallmark of excellent Beef Chili recipes.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
It’s time for the grand assembly! Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you like more heat. Stir well, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let your chili simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every so often. The flavors will meld, beans soften, and the sauce will thicken into classic chili deliciousness.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
Before dishing up, taste your Beef Chili and add a pinch more salt or any spice if you like. Then, get ready to ladle hot bowls loaded with toppings and dig in!
How to Serve Beef Chili
Garnishes
The right toppings can transform your Beef Chili from simply satisfying to absolutely show-stopping. Try dolloping it with cool, creamy sour cream, a scatter of shredded cheese, or shower it with fresh green onions for a lovely contrast. Each garnish adds a new flavor layer and pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your steaming bowl of Beef Chili with a chunk of buttery cornbread, classic tortilla chips for dipping, or even a crispy salad on the side. These accompaniments offer crunch or sweetness and make the meal feel extra special and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For something different, serve your Beef Chili over steamed rice, tuck it into baked potatoes for a hearty twist, or spoon it atop nachos for a party-worthy spread. Let your creativity (and appetite) guide you—the possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Beef Chili actually gets even better after a day or two as those flavors settle in and deepen. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—you’ll thank yourself for easy lunches all week long.
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead, Beef Chili freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and stash away for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a meal that’s just as tasty as the day it was made.
Reheating
When you’re ready for another helping, gently reheat Beef Chili on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring until hot. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. The microwave works in a pinch too—just heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
FAQs
Can I make Beef Chili in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, Beef Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat as needed.
What’s the best way to thicken my chili?
If you like a thicker consistency, let your Beef Chili simmer a little longer uncovered, or gently mash some of the beans with a spoon to naturally thicken the sauce.
Can I substitute the beef for another protein?
Yes! Feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version. Both work well and absorb the chili spices beautifully.
How spicy is this Beef Chili?
This recipe strikes a nice balance—it’s flavorful but not overly spicy. If you love more heat, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to dial it up.
What’s the easiest way to customize Beef Chili?
Play around with your toppings, swap out the beans, or toss in other veggies like corn or jalapeños. Beef Chili is endlessly versatile, so make it your own!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a warm, filling, and utterly comforting dinner, this Beef Chili will quickly become your new go-to. It’s always a hit with friends and family—give it a try and watch it disappear!
Print
Beef Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Beef Chili recipe is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavorful spices and beans, this chili is satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For Toppings:
- sour cream
- shredded cheese
- green onions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes, beans, broth, spices. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25–30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot with toppings.
Notes
- For thicker chili, simmer longer or mash some beans.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
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