Description
This Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans is a comforting and flavorful American main course, perfect for a satisfying dinner. Ground beef is browned with onions, bell peppers, and garlic, then simmered with tomatoes, kidney beans, and a blend of chili spices to create a rich and thick chili. Packed with protein and fiber, this gluten-free recipe is both nutritious and delicious, ideal for chilly evenings or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary to reduce fat content.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor of the base.
- Combine Liquids and Beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with juices, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season the Chili: Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, let the chili simmer longer or refrigerate overnight before reheating.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this chili.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro to enhance flavor and texture.