This beef chili is warming and hearty, perfect for chilly days! With tender beef, beans, and a kick of spices, it’s a bowl of comfort that everyone will love.
When I make this, I always end up with enough to share or have leftovers for the next day—win-win! Plus, topping it with cheese and sour cream makes it even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but if you’re looking for a lower-fat choice, ground turkey or chicken works great, too! Just be aware that leaner meats might need a bit more seasoning.
Beans: While kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference or what you have on hand. Canned beans are convenient and ready to use; just remember to rinse them well!
Diced Tomatoes: Feel free to swap canned diced tomatoes with fresh tomatoes (about 4-5 medium, diced) or crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have. Each option will give the dish a slightly different texture!
Chili Powder & Spices: If you’re out of chili powder, you can combine smoked paprika, cayenne, and cumin to get a similar flavor. Adjust the heat according to your taste—add more cayenne for spiciness!
What’s the Key to Building Flavor in My Chili?
Building flavor is essential in chili! Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until soft; this helps release their sweetness. Browning the meat and toasting the spices in the pot allows their flavors to deepen, making a huge difference!
- Use medium heat for sautéing; it prevents burning and allows flavors to develop.
- Don’t skip scraping the bottom of the pot when adding tomatoes; those little browned bits carry a lot of flavor!
- Letting the chili simmer on low heat helps meld the flavors beautifully. Stir occasionally, so nothing sticks.
Beef Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced fresh jalapeños
- Crusty bread or tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 45 minutes to cook, including simmering time. In total, you’ll be looking at about 1 hour for a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook it for another minute until you can smell that delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
2. Brown the Beef:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This helps to ensure even cooking.
3. Spice It Up:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and blend the flavors together beautifully.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Next, add in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give it a good stir, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those bits add a lot of flavor!
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together nicely.
6. Add the Beans:
After 30 minutes, stir in the kidney beans. Cook uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the chili a bit and let the beans soak up the flavors.
7. Adjust and Serve:
Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. When you’re happy with the flavor, it’s time to serve!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the hot chili topped with a generous dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, some fresh cilantro, and slices of jalapeños for a kick. Don’t forget some crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy your cozy and hearty beef chili!
This beef chili is rich, hearty, and bursting with warmly spiced flavors—the perfect cozy meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that you may want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor compared to beef.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Simply substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans, lentils, or chopped mushrooms for texture. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to cool it down completely before freezing.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder. You can always add a splash of hot sauce when serving for those who like it spicy!