Beef Chili

If you’re craving a bowl of rich, hearty comfort food, this Beef Chili recipe is your new best friend. Loaded with savory ground beef, bold spices, and a medley of beans and tomatoes, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. This chili delivers layers of flavor with a gentle kick of heat, balanced by creamy toppings that bring everything together. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe stand out and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen with ease.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Beef Chili truly special is its perfect harmony of spices and textures. The combination of yellow onions, green pepper, and jalapeño peppers creates a fresh and vibrant base, while the garlic punches up the savory notes. The use of both kidney and black beans adds variety in texture and taste, making every spoonful satisfying. Unlike many chili recipes that rely heavily on just chili powder, here the blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne ensures a complex, smoky warmth without overwhelming the palate. Plus, the final touch of sour cream, cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, green onions, and fresh cilantro adds layers of creaminess, heat, and freshness that make this dish unforgettable.

Shopping List

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1-2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (include seeds for extra heat)
• 8 cloves garlic, chopped or minced (or 2 tablespoons minced garlic)
• 2 pounds ground beef mince
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 14 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
• 15 ounces canned tomato sauce (or condensed tomato soup for Aussies)
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 28 ounces canned kidney beans, drained
• 14 ounces canned black beans, drained
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• A handful of cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon sliced jalapeños
• 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – for even cooking and simmering
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula – for stirring
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for prepping veggies and herbs
• Measuring spoons – to keep the spice balance just right
• Can opener – for opening canned tomatoes and beans
• Ladle – to serve and portion out your chili
• Bowl and grater – for shredding cheddar cheese

Cooking Beef Chili: The Process

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onions, green pepper, and jalapeño peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent—about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the 2 pounds of ground beef mince to the pot. Use your spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Brown the beef thoroughly until no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the spices. Let the mixture cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and bring out their full flavor.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef or chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits—this adds extra depth to your chili. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer with Beans

Reduce the heat to low and add the drained kidney and black beans. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully and the chili thicken to a luscious consistency.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Ladle your hot Beef Chili into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a handful of grated cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Ingredient Flex Options

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a smokier chili flavor.
• Add corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
• Adjust the number of jalapeños or cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
• For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
• Substitute black beans with pinto beans if preferred.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Too spicy? Balance heat by adding more tomato sauce or a spoonful of sour cream to your bowl.
• Chili too watery? Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid or stir in a small amount of cornmeal to thicken.
• Flavor too bland? Taste and adjust salt and spices halfway through simmering for best results.
• Beans falling apart? Add beans towards the end of cooking to keep their shape and texture intact.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Beef Chili tastes even better the next day! Prepare the chili fully, then cool it to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. This makes it a fantastic meal prep recipe or a quick dinner option for busy nights.

Beef Chili FAQs

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add beans during the last 30 minutes to keep them firm.

What’s the best way to store leftover chili?

Store leftover chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or extra beans and vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a full vegetarian meal.

What sides pair well with Beef Chili?

Classic sides include warm cornbread, steamed rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. For a twist, try pairing it with One Pot Creamy Cajun Beef Pasta or Hearty Meat Lovers Baked Pasta to round out your meal spread.

Keep Cooking

• One Pot Creamy Cajun Beef Pasta – a creamy, spicy pasta dish perfect for beef lovers.
• Hearty Meat Lovers Baked Pasta – loaded with meat and cheese for a satisfying dinner.

The Last Word

This Beef Chili recipe is a true classic that strikes the perfect balance between bold flavors and comforting warmth. Its versatility and ease make it an essential dish to have in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re warming up after a chilly day or feeding a hungry crowd, this chili will not disappoint. With its vibrant spices, rich textures, and fresh toppings, each bite will keep you coming back for more. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get cooking—your new favorite chili awaits!

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