This hearty beef chili is packed with tender meat, kidney beans, and a mix of spices that make every bite bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those cozy nights in!
Honestly, nothing warms the soul like a bowl of chili. Plus, it’s so easy to make—I just throw everything in the pot and let it simmer. You’ll love it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For beef chunks, use tougher cuts like chuck roast for better flavor after slow cooking.
Vegetables: While I use bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and onions for texture, feel free to add or substitute other veggies like corn, zucchini, or carrots based on what you have on hand.
Beans: Kidney and black beans are classic choices. If you have pinto beans or chickpeas, those work too! Just be sure to drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are must-haves for the best flavor. Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika works well. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne or some diced jalapeños.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef for Chili?
Cooking ground beef properly is key to a great chili. Start by breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Here’s how:
- Heat oil in your pot, then add onions and peppers for flavor.
- Add the beef and let it sear without stirring initially. This boosts the taste.
- Once browned, break it apart, mixing with veggies.
This will enhance the overall flavor of your chili, making it taste fabulous. Don’t rush this step; good ground beef makes all the difference!
How to Make Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or stew beef chunks)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Liquids:
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- Beans:
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- For Serving:
- 1-2 fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced (for inside and topping, optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beef chili recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and then you’ll let it simmer for about 1 hour. So, total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to have this warm and comforting dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook everything, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft. This should take about 5 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef or beef chunks to the pot. Cook the beef until it’s browned on all sides, breaking it up into smaller pieces if you’re using ground beef. This should take around 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally!
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for 1 minute to let the spices bloom.
4. Combine with Liquids:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring it to a simmer!
5. Let it Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Make sure to stir occasionally. If you’re using beef chunks, just wait until the beef is nice and tender.
6. Add the Beans:
Add the drained kidney beans and the black beans (if you’re using them). Let the chili simmer uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, which will help it thicken up.
7. Final Taste Check:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a little more salt or pepper according to your taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the beef chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeño peppers for added heat. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal!
Now, your rich and flavorful beef chili is ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for those cozy nights in or for sharing with friends on game day!
Can I Use Different Meats for This Chili?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even diced pork for a different flavor. Just be mindful that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily turn this chili into a vegetarian option! Substitute the ground beef with your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, and add in more beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a complete meal.
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool down before freezing.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chili?
The best way to reheat chili is on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to make sure it heats evenly. If it looks thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
