This hearty ground beef chili is a warm and comforting dish packed with flavor. With tender beef, beans, and spicy seasonings, it’s perfect for chilly nights!
I love serving my chili with a sprinkle of cheese and some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It just feels like a big hug in a bowl! 🥘❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star here. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. They’ll give a different texture but still taste great!
Kidney Beans: While kidney beans add a nice texture, black beans or pinto beans can be used if you prefer. Both work well in chili!
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika creates a warm flavor. Feel free to experiment! Add more cayenne for spice or toss in some chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but vegetable broth or even water works in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust seasonings to keep the flavor strong!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Onions and Garlic for Chili?
Sautéing onions and garlic is essential for building flavor, and here’s how to do it right!
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. Add oil to the pot, let it warm, then toss in diced onions.
- Sauté onions for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent.
- Next, add minced garlic and stir for about another minute. You’ll notice the aroma! Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can taste bitter.
This step sets the foundation for a delicious chili, so take your time for the best results!
Delicious Ground Beef Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions
- Cornbread or tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes to prep and approximately 30-40 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 50-55 minutes from start to finish, and then get ready for a delicious chili feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it, as we don’t want burnt garlic!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it out at this point to keep the chili lean.
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook these spices with the beef for about 1-2 minutes. This step really helps to develop those warm flavors!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, mix in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, rinsed kidney beans, and beef broth (or water). Stir everything together until well combined. It should look rich and inviting!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This will allow the chili to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delicious smell wafting through your kitchen!
6. Adjust and Serve:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust any seasonings if necessary—maybe a pinch more salt or a little more cayenne if you like it spicy. Now, your chili is ready to serve!
7. Add Toppings and Enjoy:
Serve the hot chili in bowls and top with your favorite toppings: a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions. On the side, enjoy it with warm cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips!
This recipe yields a rich, thick, and hearty chili that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for cozy dinners or game days—enjoy every bite! 🌶️❤️
Can I Use Different Beans in This Chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure to adjust any cooking times accordingly if you’re using canned beans.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you love heat, add more cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños! You can also throw in a few dashes of hot sauce or chipotle in adobo for a smoky kick.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld! Prepare it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Should I Serve with Chili?
Chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it over baked potatoes for a hearty meal. Don’t forget the toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs!
