Chili Recipe

Nothing warms the soul like a steaming bowl of chili on a crisp evening. This hearty chili recipe bursts with bold, smoky flavors and tender textures, making it the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or cozy nights in.

Versatile and easy to customize, it’s a dish everyone will love, from spice enthusiasts to picky eaters. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

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This chili recipe delivers a rich, savory blend of ground beef, beans, and aromatic spices with a touch of heat. It’s thick, hearty, and perfect for spooning over cornbread or topping with creamy cheese. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking. The balance of smoky cumin, tangy tomatoes, and optional jalapeño heat creates a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 for rich flavor; leaner options work too)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for bold aroma)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (for color and subtle sweetness)
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional, for heat; keep seeds for extra spice)
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed (hearty texture)
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (variety in flavor)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (rich base; fire-roasted for smoky depth)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (chunky texture)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (intensifies tomato flavor)
• 2 cups beef broth (enhances savory notes; low-sodium to control salt)
• 2 tbsp chili powder (key for bold, warm flavor)
• 1 tbsp ground cumin (earthy, smoky undertone)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (deep, smoky nuance)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (herbal balance)
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, to mellow acidity)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, avocado slices

Notes: Fresh garlic and onion elevate the dish over pre-chopped versions. Canned beans save time but retain hearty texture. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky edge, perfect for chili lovers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Prep Ingredients: Dice onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño; mince garlic. Drain and rinse beans. Having everything ready streamlines cooking.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat for a lighter chili. The beef’s savory aroma sets the stage.
3. Sauté Veggies: Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. The veggies release sweet and spicy notes, building flavor.
4. Add Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute to toast spices, unlocking their warm, earthy scents.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to deepen flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and brown sugar (if using). Scrape up browned bits from the pot’s bottom for extra richness.
6. Add Beans: Stir in kidney and black beans. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili thickens, melding flavors into a cozy, hearty stew.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste for seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or more chili powder for heat. Simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes if you prefer a thicker texture.
8. Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like cheddar, sour cream, or cilantro. The creamy toppings balance the chili’s bold spices.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip Toasting Spices: Heating spices in oil enhances their flavor, giving the chili depth.
• Control the Heat: Adjust jalapeño seeds or chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
• Let It Simmer: Longer simmering (up to 1 hour) intensifies flavors but isn’t required.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and spices before serving for a balanced dish.
• Use a Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven retains heat, ensuring even cooking and rich texture.

Serving Suggestions

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Serve this chili with warm cornbread for a classic pairing, or scoop it over baked potatoes for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. Top with shredded cheddar and a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, or add avocado slices for a buttery contrast.

For gatherings, set up a chili bar with toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips for guests to customize. Present in rustic bowls with a sprig of cilantro for a pop of color.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Let chili cool for no more than 2 hours before storing.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if thickened.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The chili’s flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier.

FAQs

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, swap ground beef for plant-based meat or extra beans like pinto or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef.

What can I substitute for jalapeño?
Use green bell pepper for no heat or a pinch of cayenne for spice without chunks.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown beef and sauté veggies first, then transfer to a slow cooker with remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I thicken my chili?
Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes or mash some beans against the pot’s side for natural thickness.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well but may need extra seasoning for depth. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami.

Conclusion

This hearty chili recipe is your ticket to cozy, flavorful meals that bring people together. Its bold spices and rich textures make every bite a delight. Try it tonight, share it with loved ones, and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Happy cooking!