This homemade chili is a hearty mix of beans, tomatoes, and spices that warms you right up! Perfect for chilly days or cozy nights with family or friends.
It’s easy to make, and the smell while it’s cooking is simply irresistible! I like to top mine with cheese and serve it with warm bread—just can’t get enough! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian version, swap it out for mushrooms or lentils!
Kidney Beans: These beans add great texture and protein. If you’re in the mood for something different, pinto beans or black beans work wonderfully too—each adds its own unique flavor!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a staple for ease, but you can use fresh tomatoes if you have them handy. Just make sure to chop them well and add a bit of extra liquid.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor, but feel free to adjust the heat! If you don’t have cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes can be a good substitute. Modify according to your taste!
How Do You Ensure Your Chili is Bursting with Flavor?
The secret to a flavorful chili lies in toasting your spices! This step enhances their flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- After browning the meat, stir in your spices and cook for about a minute. This activates their aromatic essence.
- Another tip is to let your chili simmer longer. The more time the ingredients have to meld, the better the taste. If you can, let it sit for an extra 10-15 minutes.
Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust at the end. Add more salt, spices or even a splash of vinegar for brightness!
Homemade Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade chili takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes to simmer. Overall, you’ll invest less than an hour from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weekday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will start to smell delicious!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which will take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it out now to make your chili less greasy.
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re up for some heat), salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to let those spices toast and release their flavors—this step makes a huge difference!
4. Combine with Tomatoes and Beans:
Next, add in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything well to combine, letting the flavors mingle together.
5. Simmer for Flavor:
Bring the chili to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chili to thicken up and the flavors to meld together, so give it some time to work its magic!
6. Final Taste Check:
Before serving, take a moment to taste your chili. Adjust the seasonings as necessary, adding more salt, spices, or even a splash of vinegar for brightness if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now for the fun part! Serve your homemade chili hot, topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped green onions. Enjoy this warm, comforting dish with your favorite sides or some fresh bread!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef, and it will still provide a delicious flavor. Just be sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in taste.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or incorporate jalapeño peppers or hot sauce. Additionally, crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick as well.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for extra flavor.
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last in the Fridge?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop, just add a splash of water or broth if it thickens up too much!
