This beef chili is warm, hearty, and perfect for chilly days. With tender beef, beans, and just the right kick of spices, it’s a comforting bowl of goodness!
I love serving this chili with some crunchy bread or on top of rice. It makes for a cozy meal that fills you up and warms your heart. Who doesn’t love a big bowl of chili? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for a healthy option. You can substitute it with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer plant-based, try using lentils or a meat substitute.
Onion and Garlic: These two add great flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder are effective substitutes. Fresh ingredients are my go-to for the best taste!
Beans: Kidney beans are common in chili, but you can swap in black beans, pinto beans or even chickpeas if you’d like a different texture and flavor.
Spices: If you want a milder chili, cut back on chili powder and cayenne. Alternatively, add extra seasonings like oregano for a unique twist. I love a pinch of cinnamon for a surprise note!
How Do I Properly Brown Ground Beef?
Browning the ground beef well is essential for rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated pan on medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sear.
- Add the ground beef without overcrowding the pan. If you have too much, cook in batches.
- Resist stirring right away; let it sear for a few minutes before breaking it up.
- Ensure it’s cooked through and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed but keep some for flavor.
Perfectly browned beef adds depth to your chili!
Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chili:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beef chili recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-45 minutes to cook, making the total time around 60 minutes. It’s a great dish to prepare after a busy day and it’s even better the next day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent. It’s the base of flavor for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Peppers:
Next, add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly softened. This is where the magic begins!
3. Brown the Beef:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
4. Season and Toast the Spices:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like some spice). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the flavors!
5. Mix in the Remaining Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together well to combine.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the chili thicken and all the flavors meld beautifully together!
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust any seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños if you like it spicy, and chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with a wedge of lime on the side for a refreshing twist!
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful beef chili! Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends. 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives that still make a delicious chili. Just be mindful that they may require a little less cooking time, so keep an eye on it while it simmers!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add more beans and vegetables for extra texture and flavor.
Can I Store Leftover Chili?
Yes! Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
How Do I Thicken My Chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the chili, cooking for a few more minutes until thickened.
