When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chili to satisfy your hunger and warm you from the inside out. This recipe for Homemade Spicy Chili is packed with bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and just the right amount of heat to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a comforting meal, this homemade chili is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this flavorful and comforting classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced onions
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their flavors.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, drained kidney beans, drained black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and additional cayenne pepper if desired for more heat.
- Once the chili is cooked to your liking and the flavors have developed, serve hot in bowls with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or diced onions.
Tips for Success:
- For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
- Make this chili ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables such as diced carrots, corn kernels, or chopped celery for added flavor and nutrition.
- Serve the chili with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread for dipping.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add extra beans or diced vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for a hearty vegetarian option.
- White Bean Chicken Chili: Substitute cooked shredded chicken and white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern beans) for a milder chili option.
- Three-Bean Chili: Add an extra can of beans such as pinto beans or garbanzo beans to the chili for added protein and fiber.
Homemade Spicy Chili is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days and cozy nights at home. With its rich and hearty flavors, this homemade chili is sure to warm you up from the inside out and leave you feeling satisfied. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delicious comfort food classic. Whether you’re serving it for dinner with family or sharing it at a gathering with friends, Homemade Spicy Chili is sure to be a hit every time.