Description

This Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans is a comforting and flavorful classic American dish perfect for cozy meals. It features ground beef simmered with a blend of spices, kidney beans, and crushed tomatoes, creating a rich and satisfying chili that is ideal for family dinners or game-day gatherings.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Meat and Protein

1 and 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Spices and Seasonings

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Other Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth

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Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, ensuring it becomes fragrant but does not burn.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, cooking until fully browned. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
Season the Meat: Mix in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly with the spices.
Add Tomato Paste: Incorporate the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor and meld it with the spices and meat.
Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and sugar if using. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and flavors meld beautifully.
Final Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

This chili tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to develop fully.
Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or alongside cornbread for a complete meal.
For a thicker consistency, continue to simmer the chili uncovered for a longer time.