Description
This classic chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Featuring ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, it simmers to perfection on the stovetop, offering rich, comforting flavors that meld beautifully. Easy to make and customizable, this chili is great for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
Spices
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the pot if necessary to avoid a greasy chili.
- Add Vegetables and Beans: Stir in the diced green bell pepper, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all components.
- Season the Chili: Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so the spices evenly distribute throughout the chili.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt, pepper, or spices. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or alongside cornbread for a complete meal.
Notes
- This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors mature. You can refrigerate or freeze leftovers for convenient future meals.
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce during step 4.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef as a leaner alternative.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control heat level according to your preference.
