The Ultimate Ground Beef Chili Recipe
Chili is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This Ground Beef Chili Recipe is easy to make, packed with flavors, and is sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a game-day gathering, this recipe has you covered!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Chili
This recipe delivers on big flavors without needing fancy ingredients or hours of prep. The beef, beans, and tomatoes create a rich and filling dish that’s great on its own or as a topping for nachos, baked potatoes, and even hot dogs!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make a mouth-watering ground beef chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep the chili from being too greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the vegetables as they cook. This helps them release their natural juices and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the spices cook with the vegetables and beef for about a minute to release their aroma and deepen the flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Pro Tip: The longer you let the chili simmer, the better the flavors meld together. If you have time, consider letting it simmer for up to an hour.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on your preference.
Step 6: Serve and Add Toppings
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings—shredded cheese, sour cream, or a sprinkle of green onions add a great finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Chili
Use Quality Ground Beef
80/20 ground beef is a great choice for chili as it provides a good balance of flavor and tenderness without being too greasy.
Adjust the Spice Level
If you like extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder chili, omit the cayenne altogether.
Make It Ahead of Time
Chili often tastes better the next day, so consider making it a day ahead and reheating it. The flavors will deepen and blend together beautifully.
FAQ
Can I Freeze Ground Beef Chili?
Yes! Chili freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Enjoy this comforting ground beef chili with a side of crusty bread or a handful of tortilla chips. It’s perfect for any chilly day or casual gathering.
