Homemade beef chili is a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe balances rich flavors and robust textures, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Reasons to try it
This chili stands out for its deep flavor and thick consistency. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling option.
"This is the only chili I ever want to make again!"
With minimal prep and straightforward cooking, you’ll appreciate the time saved.
The cooking process explained
This recipe combines browning the beef, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering everything together until thick and flavorful. Don’t rush the simmering — it develops a rich taste.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 45 min | Total Time: 55 min
What you’ll need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Step-by-step instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add kidney beans and crushed tomatoes. Stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve with sour cream and shredded cheese on top. Pair it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Storage and reheating tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Also, chili freezes well for up to 3 months.
Helpful cooking tips
Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. Let the chili sit for an hour for better flavor. Adjust spices to taste before serving for a personal touch.
Recipe variations
Try adding black beans or corn for extra flavor. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Experiment with different chili powders for varied heat levels.
FAQ
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.
How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, all listed ingredients are gluten-free, but check canned goods for any added ingredients.
Homemade Beef Chili
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and satisfying chili packed with rich flavors and robust textures, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add kidney beans and crushed tomatoes. Stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Notes
Serve with optional toppings and pair with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beef chili, hearty chili, easy recipes, comfort food