Beef chili has been my ultimate comfort food forever, especially on a chilly evening. I still remember my mom making a huge pot of this hearty beef chili on Sundays; the aroma of simmering spices and rich tomatoes filled our whole house, making everyone gather around the dinner table. It’s a truly classic beef chili that’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a perfect easy beef chili recipe for busy weeknights. Get ready to fill your kitchen with that incredible smell! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef Chili
This isn’t just any chili; it’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple to make. You’ll love it because:
- The taste is incredibly rich and satisfying, with a perfect balance of savory beef and warm spices.
- It boasts a quick prep time, meaning you can have a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
- It’s a healthier option than many comfort foods, packed with protein and fiber from the ground beef and beans.
- This recipe is wonderfully budget-friendly, using common ingredients that don’t break the bank.
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- As a classic beef chili, it delivers that traditional, comforting flavor we all crave.
- This ground beef chili is incredibly versatile, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients for Classic Beef Chili
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this amazing ground beef and bean chili. Each component plays a vital role in creating that signature flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and building the flavor base
- 1 pound ground beef – the hearty star of our chili
- 1 large onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for that essential aromatic punch
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – brings a touch of fresh sweetness and color
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – forms the rich, savory tomato base
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained – classic chili beans for texture and substance
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained – adds another layer of texture and flavor
- 1 cup beef broth – helps meld the flavors and creates a perfect simmering liquid
- 2 tablespoons chili powder – the backbone of our chili’s flavor
- 1 teaspoon cumin – adds warmth and earthiness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the other flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for a subtle kick
How to Make Easy Beef Chili
Whipping up this delicious beef chili is simpler than you might think! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a pot of comforting goodness ready in no time. The total beef chili cooking time is about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight.
- Step 1: Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 pound ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease for a cleaner flavor.
- Step 2: Toss in 1 large onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 bell pepper, chopped. Sauté these aromatics until they’re softened and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step really builds the foundation of flavor for our chili.
- Step 3: Pour in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained, and 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained. Add 1 cup beef broth to bring it all together.
- Step 4: Now, it’s time for the spices that make this a truly spicy ground beef chili! Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Give everything a good stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Step 5: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes. For even deeper flavor, you can extend this beef chili cooking time further; just stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 6: Finally, taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasonings as needed – maybe it needs a touch more salt or spice. Serve this hearty beef chili hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Beef Chili
Want to elevate your chili game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to make this hearty beef chili truly unforgettable. These simple tips will ensure yours is the best one yet.
- Don’t rush the browning of the ground beef; getting a good sear adds so much depth of flavor.
- For an even richer taste, simmer your beef chili longer than the minimum time. Letting those flavors meld is key to an authentic beef chili.
- Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process, not just at the end.
- If you’re prepping ahead, cook the chili completely, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen overnight.
What’s the secret to perfect beef chili?
The real secret to a perfect beef chili is patience. Letting it simmer for a good hour, or even longer, allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a truly complex and satisfying flavor profile that you just can’t rush. For more on slow cooking techniques, check out these slow cooker tips.
Can I make this beef chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I find this easy beef chili recipe tastes even better the next day. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stovetop.
How do I avoid common mistakes with beef chili?
A common pitfall is not browning the beef properly, which impacts flavor. Another is not simmering long enough, leading to a less developed taste. Ensure you get a good sear on the meat and give your chili adequate simmering time. Learning about proper cooking techniques can help prevent these issues.
Best Ways to Serve Beef Chili
Once your pot of delicious beef chili is ready, it’s time for the fun part: serving it up! I love experimenting with different accompaniments to make each bowl special. For me, the best toppings for beef chili always include a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream to balance the heat, and some fresh, chopped green onions for a bit of crunch and color.
Thinking about what to serve with beef chili, I often reach for warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. It’s also fantastic alongside a simple side salad or some tortilla chips. This hearty beef chili is so versatile, it practically begs to be customized! You might also enjoy these focaccia bread recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Beef Chili
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for a single serving of this delicious beef chili. Understanding these values can help you incorporate it into your balanced diet. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult resources like the MyPlate website.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Beef Chili
This hearty beef chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal, and knowing the best way for beef chili storage helps ensure it stays delicious. After cooking, let the chili cool down slightly at room temperature for about an hour before transferring it to airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep well for 3 to 4 days. If you plan to keep it longer, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be sure it’s piping hot all the way through before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Chili
What kind of beef is best for chili?
For the best results in your ground beef chili, I recommend using a leaner ground beef, around 85% to 93% lean. This gives you good flavor without too much excess grease. If you use a fattier blend, be sure to drain it well after browning to prevent your chili from being oily.
Can I make this beef chili vegetarian?
While this recipe is designed for beef, you can absolutely make a delicious vegetarian version! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the beans and vegetables. You could add extra kidney beans, black beans, corn, or even some diced sweet potato for heartiness. You might also want to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How can I make my chili spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, there are several ways to spice up your chili con carne beef. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices, or toss in a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when you sauté the onions and bell peppers. For a smoky heat, try adding some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce!
What’s the difference between chili and chili con carne?
Essentially, “chili con carne” is Spanish for “chili with meat,” and it’s often used interchangeably with beef chili, especially in certain regions. Traditionally, chili con carne might have been more focused on the meat itself with fewer beans or vegetables, but today, the terms are largely synonymous for a meat-based chili.
Variations of Beef Chili You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered this basic beef chili, don’t be afraid to experiment! There are so many ways to make it your own and create a unique homestyle beef chili. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Slow Cooker Beef Chili: For an even easier approach, transfer all your ingredients (except toppings) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method really deepens the flavors and tenderizes everything beautifully.
- White Bean Chicken Chili: While this recipe focuses on beef, you could swap the ground beef for shredded chicken and use cannellini beans instead of kidney and black beans for a completely different, yet equally delicious, white chili.
- Smoky Chipotle Chili: Add a teaspoon of adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers along with the other spices for a wonderful smoky heat. You can also add a bit more chili powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetarian Chili: If you’re looking for a meatless option, simply omit the ground beef. You can add extra beans, corn, diced sweet potatoes, or even some hearty lentils to make a satisfying vegetarian chili.
Beef Chili: Simple Comfort in 45 Minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic and hearty beef chili recipe, perfect for a comforting meal. This chili features ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato base, seasoned to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or longer for flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
- Serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
- This beef chili recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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