Classic Beef Chili Recipe

Chili is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for those cold winter nights or any time you’re craving a bowl of comfort. This classic beef chili recipe is packed with flavor and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Made with tender beef, beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Follow this recipe to create a mouthwatering chili that will warm your soul.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish (optional):

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced green onions
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapenos

Steps

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Spice it Up

Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like your chili spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. If it’s too spicy, add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot chili into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapenos, if desired. Serve with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Variations

While this classic beef chili recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add your own personal touch. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Chili:

Replace the ground beef with an extra can of kidney beans or your favorite plant-based protein substitute, such as tofu or tempeh. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. White Bean Chili:

Swap the kidney beans for white beans and use chicken or vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce. Add some chopped green chilies for a flavorful twist.

3. Smoky Chipotle Chili:

Add a few chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the pot for a smoky and spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance.

Tips

Follow these tips to make the best classic beef chili:

1. Brown the Beef:

Make sure to brown the ground beef properly to enhance the flavor of the chili. Break it up into small pieces and cook until no pink remains.

2. Use Quality Spices:

Fresh and high-quality spices will make a significant difference in the taste of your chili. If possible, grind whole spices just before using for maximum flavor.

3. Let it Simmer:

Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 1 hour will develop the flavors and make the meat tender. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste.

4. Adjust the Heat:

If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

5. Get Creative with Garnishes:

Experiment with different garnishes to personalize your chili. Try adding avocado slices, pickled jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

This classic beef chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will warm you up from the inside out. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, this chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab a bowl, garnish it to your liking, and enjoy a steaming hot bowl of deliciousness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this chili in a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables in a separate pan. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Follow the recipe as directed, but adjust the cooking time slightly as turkey cooks faster than beef.

4. How can I make the chili thicker?

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add a slurry made of cornstarch and water during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the chili until it thickens.

5. Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes, this chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.