Description

Classic Beef Chili is a hearty, comforting dish made with tender ground beef, robust spices, and a rich tomato base. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, this recipe uses simple pantry staples to deliver deep, layered flavors with a texture that warms you from the inside out. Easily customizable for spice level and dietary needs, it also makes an excellent meal prep option, tasting even better the next day.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasonings

2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt, to taste (start with 1 tsp)
Black pepper, to taste (about ½ tsp)

Liquids and Base

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Ingredients

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or black beans, rinsed and drained
1–2 fresh jalapeños, chopped (for spicy upgrade)
1 tsp smoked paprika or splash of chipotle sauce (for smoky flavor)
Additional veggies like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, to build the flavor base for your chili.
Brown the beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned with no pink remaining, about 7-10 minutes. This step develops the rich, meaty flavor crucial to the chili.
Spice it up: Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly to evenly coat the beef and onions, letting the spices toast slightly for a deeper aroma, about 1-2 minutes.
Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmer until thick: Reduce the heat to low and let your chili simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
Add optional beans: If using beans, rinse and drain a 15-ounce can of kidney or black beans well. Stir them into the chili during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through without losing their texture.

Notes

Use fresh spices to ensure vibrant and robust flavor.
Don’t rush browning the beef; proper caramelization adds depth.
Adjust salt gradually, especially after reducing liquids, to avoid over-seasoning.
Let chili rest for a few hours or overnight to develop richer flavors.
Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: beef chili, classic chili, hearty chili, comfort food, ground beef recipe, easy chili, family dinner, meal prep chili