Easy & Hearty Beef Chili Recipe

Beef chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul and tantalizes your taste buds! Picture tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection, mingling with vibrant bell peppers, zesty tomatoes, and a medley of spices that dance on your palate. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! With a dash of smoky paprika and a sprinkle of cumin, every spoonful is a delightful explosion of flavor. Serve it with a dollop of creamy sour cream and crunchy tortilla chips for the perfect cozy night in!

beef chili recipe

Chef Jasper

Warm up with this delicious beef chili recipe! Packed with flavor and easy to make, it's the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 minute min

Total Time 1 minute min

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Large Pot For sautéing and simmering the chili.

Ingredients

  

Meat

• 1 pound Ground Beef The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.

Vegetables

• 1 can Kidney Beans Adds heartiness and texture; rinse before adding to reduce sodium.
• 1 can Canned Tomatoes Provides a base for the chili; crushed or diced can be used.
• 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
• 2 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall flavor; use fresh for a more robust taste.
• 1 medium Bell Pepper Adds color and sweetness; any variety works well.

Spices

• 2 tablespoons Chili Powder The key spice that gives chili its signature flavor; adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds warmth and earthiness; a little goes a long way.
• 1 cup Beef Broth Enhances the beefy flavor; can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing the vegetables; use a light hand to avoid greasiness.
• to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning; taste as you go for the best balance.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

• Collect 1 pound of ground beef, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 bell pepper, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

• Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Add the Spices

• Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and veggies in those tasty spices.

Step 5: Mix in the Tomatoes and Beans

• Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and the kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

• Give your chili a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra kick.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve your beef chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Keyword Chili

Why You’ll Love This Beef Chili Recipe

• It’s a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
• Customize the spice level to suit your taste buds perfectly.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
• Perfect for gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy.

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients For Beef Chili Recipe

• Ground Beef – the star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Onion – adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
• Garlic – enhances the overall flavor; use fresh for a more robust taste.
• Bell Peppers – adds color and sweetness; any variety works well.
• Canned Tomatoes – provides a base for the chili; crushed or diced can be used.
• Kidney Beans – adds heartiness and texture; rinse before adding to reduce sodium.
• Chili Powder – the key spice that gives chili its signature flavor; adjust to taste.
• Cumin – adds warmth and earthiness; a little goes a long way.
• Beef Broth – enhances the beefy flavor; can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Olive Oil – for sautéing the vegetables; use a light hand to avoid greasiness.
• Salt and Pepper – essential for seasoning; taste as you go for the best balance.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Beef Chili Recipe

Get ready to whip up a delicious beef chili that will warm your heart and fill your belly!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Collect 1 pound of ground beef, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 bell pepper, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and veggies in those tasty spices.

Step 5: Mix in the Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and the kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Give your chili a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra kick.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your beef chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making the Beef Chili Recipe

• Use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• For extra depth, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or dark chocolate to the chili.
• Let your chili simmer longer for richer flavors; a slow cooker works wonders!
• Top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.
• Serve with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal that warms the soul.

How to Serve Beef Chili Recipe

Enjoy your beef chili with these delightful serving suggestions:

• Top with shredded cheese for a melty finish.
• Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
• Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of flavor.
• Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Offer avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy touch.
• Serve over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Accompany with a side salad for a refreshing balance.
• Try it in a baked potato for a cozy twist.
• Use as a filling for tacos or burritos for a fun variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your beef chili recipe later without losing flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow chili to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container for best results.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Portion out servings for easy thawing.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Add a splash of broth or water if chili is too thick.

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