ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Add the Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and become fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Beans:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer and Let the Flavors Meld:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken. You can simmer it longer if you prefer a thicker chili.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Cornbread: Serve your chili with a side of warm cornbread for a classic and comforting combination.
- Over Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the chili over steamed white or brown rice.
- In a Taco Bowl: Layer the chili over lettuce and top with cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a fun taco salad-style meal.
- With Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the chili with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun, interactive meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef Chili:
- Customize Your Beans: If you prefer, you can switch out the beans for other varieties like pinto beans, navy beans, or black-eyed peas.
- Add Heat: For a spicier kick, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili.
- Let It Sit: Chili tastes even better the next day! If you have time, let it sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge to allow the flavors to deepen.
- Make It Ahead: This chili is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Why This Classic Beef Chili is a Winner:
This Classic Beef Chili recipe is everything you want in a comforting meal—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit. The best part? It’s easy to make, comes together in one pot, and is fully customizable to your taste preferences.
So, whether you’re cozying up on a cold evening or bringing a dish to share, this chili recipe is a must-try. With its savory, spicy flavor and tender ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
ADVERTISEMENT