When the weather turns colder, nothing beats a comforting bowl of beef chili. Whether you’re with family or enjoying a quiet evening, this hearty dish brings warmth and flavor to every bite. If you’ve made chili before, this recipe elevates it with rich, savory flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Why We Love This Beef Chili
A Comforting Classic: Beef chili isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors. The tender beef, seasoned to perfection, paired with the earthiness of beans and the acidity of tomatoes, creates a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s as perfect for weeknight dinners as it is for entertaining guests.
Easy Yet Flavorful: Beef chili is one of those recipes that’s simple enough to make on a busy evening but delivers incredible flavor. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, making it a go-to dish for any home cook, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.
Health Benefits: While beef chili is a comforting dish, it also offers nutritional benefits. Ground beef is a great source of protein, and beans add fiber and essential vitamins. By using lean beef and lots of vegetables, you can make a hearty yet balanced meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Versatility for Any Occasion: One of the best things about beef chili is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you like it mild or spicy, with beans or without, this recipe can be customized to your liking.
Ingredients for Beef Chili
Ground Beef – Lean ground beef (80/20) is ideal for this beef chili recipe as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Using lean beef reduces excess fat while maintaining a rich, savory taste. Avoid using fatty cuts as they can make the chili greasy.
Onion – Onions form the flavor base of the beef chili, adding sweetness and depth to the dish when sautéed. It’s essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the chili, so don’t skip this ingredient.
Garlic – Minced garlic complements the savory beef and spices, infusing your beef chili with aromatic warmth. Fresh garlic offers the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch if needed.
Diced Tomatoes – Canned diced tomatoes provide a tangy base and necessary liquid for the beef chili. Their natural acidity balances the richness of the beef, and they also help thicken the chili as it simmers.
Kidney Beans – Kidney beans are a classic addition to beef chili, providing a hearty, earthy texture. Be sure to drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the pot to avoid excess starch and salt.
Black Beans – Like kidney beans, black beans add fiber and protein to your beef chili. Their smooth texture pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, creating a well-rounded, satisfying dish.
How to Make Beef Chili
Making beef chili is straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps for a perfect bowl of chili every time:
Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Stir occasionally, cooking until the onions are softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to toast the spices and let them bloom for about a minute, releasing their full flavor. Add the diced tomatoes and mix everything together.
Add Beans and Broth: Pour in the kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine. This is the base of your chili, and it will simmer to develop all the flavors.
Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes, but feel free to simmer it longer for even deeper flavor. Stir occasionally and taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili powder if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, it’s ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Expert Tips for Perfect Beef Chili
Simmer Longer for Depth: If you have the time, let your chili simmer for a couple of hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop and meld together, making for a richer chili.
Fresh Spices vs. Old Spices: Using freshly ground spices, such as cumin, will enhance the flavor of your chili. Fresh spices have a more vibrant, aromatic kick.
Adjust Heat Level: If you like your chili spicy, don’t hesitate to add more cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce or omit the spicy ingredients.
Variations of Beef Chili
Vegetarian Chili: Swap out the beef for a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu, and keep the beans and spices for a hearty vegetarian chili.
White Beef Chili: Use white beans and green chilies for a different take on the classic. This version has a lighter flavor and is perfect for a change of pace.
Beef and Sweet Potato Chili: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and texture to your chili. This variation is both nutritious and delicious.
Spicy Beef Chili: For chili lovers who enjoy the heat, load up on extra jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Serving Beef Chili
With Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic pairing with chili. The sweetness of cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili, creating a perfect balance.
Over Rice: Serve your chili over a bowl of rice—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It adds substance and makes the meal even heartier.
As a Chili Bar: If you’re hosting a party, set up a chili bar with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, and fresh herbs. Let everyone customize their bowls to suit their tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Chili
What is the best type of beef to use for chili?
For the best chili, opt for lean ground beef with a fat content of 80/20. This ensures a good balance of flavor without too much greasiness.
Can I make beef chili ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, beef chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. It’s a great dish for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How can I make my chili thicker?
To thicken your chili, let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or add a thickening agent like cornstarch or masa harina (corn flour) for an authentic touch.
How long does beef chili last in the fridge?
Beef chili will last for 4-5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Beef Chili
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean (80/20)
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Stir occasionally, cooking until the onions are softened and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to toast the spices, cooking for about a minute to release their full flavor.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili powder if needed.
- Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, it’s ready to serve. Ladle into bowls and top with optional garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.