There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling pot of beef chili wafting through your home. Picture this: tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich, spicy sauce, dancing with beans and vibrant peppers. one pan kielbasa hash It’s a symphony for the senses that promises warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly nights or casual get-togethers with friends. smoked sausage casserole.
As I recall my first attempt at making beef chili, I was armed with enthusiasm but little experience. My kitchen quickly transformed into a chaotic battleground of spices and ingredients. Friends gathered around, eagerly waiting to taste my creation. The laughter and anticipation made it an unforgettable experience, one that led to many more chili adventures in the years to come. For more inspiration, check out this Guinness Beef Stew recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef chili recipe is easy to prepare and full of flavor
- Customize it based on your preferences, adding extra spices or veggies
- Its deep red color makes it visually appealing on any table setting
- Enjoy it as a hearty meal or as a delicious topping for nachos
My friends still talk about that first batch, and how I accidentally set off the smoke alarm while trying to sauté the onions!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option but keep some fat for extra flavor.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a thick sauce; they add sweetness and depth to the chili.
- Beans: A mix of kidney and black beans adds texture and protein; use canned for convenience.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion gives a sweet base flavor; yellow onions work best for this dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will enhance the overall aroma and taste; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Bell Peppers: Red or green bell peppers add crunch; chop them finely for even cooking.
- Cumin: This spice imparts a warm, earthy flavor; it’s essential for authentic chili taste.
- Chili Powder: Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance; this is where you can bring some fire!
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing richness.
- Sour Cream (for serving): A dollop of sour cream balances the spice with its creamy tang; it’s a must-have topping!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. hearty sausage stew recipe. cozy sausage and rice skillet.
Let’s Make it together
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on your countertop so you have everything at hand when you need it. This will streamline your cooking process and make things feel less chaotic.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add some oil. Toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers until they soften, about 5 minutes. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen!
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go. Ensure no pink remains—about 7 to 10 minutes should do it!
- Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook until fragrant, around 1 minute. The smell will have everyone wondering what delicious magic is happening in there!
- Pour in crushed tomatoes along with drained beans. Stir everything together well so each ingredient dances joyfully within the pot’s embrace.
- Add beef broth next! Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for at least 30 minutes—this melds all those beautiful flavors together.
- Ladle your beef chili into bowls once it’s thickened beautifully! Top with sour cream if desired, sprinkle some fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy every spoonful.
Cooking beef chili isn’t just about creating an incredible dish—it’s also about bringing people together over good food filled with love (and maybe some smoke alarms too). Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This beef chili recipe is a comforting classic that impresses with its rich flavors
- The combination of spices brings warmth, while the tender beef melts in your mouth
- Perfect for cold nights or gatherings, it’s a dish that creates lasting memories around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the beef first to lock in those delicious juices, then sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers before adding canned tomatoes and beans for a flavorful base.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or use extra beans for a meatless version. You can also add more spices like cayenne for heat or bell peppers for sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an even richer flavor, let your chili simmer longer; it’s worth the wait!
- Avoid overcooking beans by adding them towards the end of cooking
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly!
Cooking beef chili always reminds me of my college days when friends would gather for study sessions—more like feasting sessions. We never quite studied, but we did enjoy some epic chili!
FAQ
Can I make beef chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the beef first, then add all ingredients and cook on low.
What type of beans should I use?
Kidney beans and black beans work great, but feel free to mix your favorites!
How can I make my chili spicier?
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking to kick up the heat!
Beef Chili
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Warm up your chilly nights with this hearty beef chili recipe. Tender chunks of lean ground beef mingle with a rich blend of spices, beans, and vibrant bell peppers, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for casual get-togethers or family dinners, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers (red or green), chopped
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on the countertop for easy access.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the pot; cook until browned and no longer pink (7 to 10 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and both types of beans; stir well to combine.
- Add beef broth; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve in bowls topped with sour cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
