The Best Homemade Chili
The Best Homemade Chili is a hearty, comforting dish filled with tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices for a perfect balance of flavors. This classic chili recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to serve at your next gathering, this rich, flavorful chili will have everyone coming back for more!
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or pork
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can 15 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef to the pot with the vegetables. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste.
- Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Step 4: Simmer the Chili
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- For deeper flavor, let the chili simmer for up to 2 hours on low.
- Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the chili into bowls and add desired toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, sour cream, and cilantro.
Video
Notes
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add more beans or veggies like zucchini, carrots, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños if you like your chili spicier.
- Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes.
- Storage: Chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.