This hearty ground beef chili is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, beans, and a mix of spices, it’s sure to fill you up and bring a smile.
Pssst, the secret is in letting it simmer! I usually make a big pot so I can enjoy the leftovers for lunch. Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of chili on a chilly day? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. They’ll still give you a hearty flavor without the extra fat.
Onion & Garlic: These two are essential for flavor! If you’re in a pinch, you can use onion powder for onion and garlic powder for minced garlic, but fresh is always best for the best taste.
Beans: Kidney beans are a classic choice, but black beans or pinto beans can easily replace them. You can even skip the beans if you’re avoiding carbs.
Spices: The chili powder and cumin really give the chili its character. If you run out, paprika can add a different dimension. For a little kick, try adding more cayenne or crushed red pepper!
How Do I Achieve Maximum Flavor with My Chili?
Simmering is key! After adding all your ingredients, allow the chili to simmer uncovered. This lets excess moisture cook off, thickening the chili and intensifying the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Start on medium heat to bring your chili to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Feel free to taste and tweak the seasoning while it cooks. A little extra salt or spice can elevate the dish significantly.
Ground Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (orange or red)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 30 minutes for cooking. Including some time for simmering, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This will give your chili a wonderful foundation.
2. Adding Flavor:
Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the pot. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the garlic to release its aroma and the bell pepper to soften slightly.
3. Browning the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into pieces as it cooks. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off.
4. Spicing It Up:
Now, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to toast, enhancing their flavors.
5. Mixing in the Goodness:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth (or water). Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the magic begins!
6. Simmering:
Bring the chili to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will thicken the chili and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Taste Testing:
After simmering, taste your chili! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you think it needs a little tweak. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!
8. Serving Up:
Serve the hot chili in bowls and garnish each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro leaves. If you like, you can also add some tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch. Enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking! Your comforting and flavorful ground beef chili is ready to warm you up!
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili a day ahead. Just let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight, and you can easily reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving!
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and adjust the chili powder to taste. For those who like it spicier, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño in addition to the cayenne for extra heat!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, chili freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
What Can I Serve with My Chili?
This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Don’t forget the toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs for added flavor!