When it comes to comforting meals that warm the soul, few dishes can compete with a big bowl of Ground Beef Chili. This dish carries an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and instantly brings comfort on a chilly night. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with hearty ingredients that make it a family favorite. You might find yourself savoring each bite while dreaming of the next bowl.
Why We Love This Ground Beef Chili Recipe
What makes this Ground Beef Chili so special? It’s all in the ingredients and the method. This recipe results in a fulfilling dish that combines tender ground beef, aromatic spices, and beans, all simmered to perfection. The secret lies in the layers of flavor that build as you cook, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The chili powder, cumin, and oregano provide warmth and depth, while tomatoes and a hint of brown sugar balance everything out.
Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to customize this dish to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Just add more chili powder or red pepper flakes. Prefer it milder? Stick with a pinch of salt and some cheese on top. This versatility means you can cater to your preferences or those of your guests. From kids to adults, everyone will find something to love in your Ground Beef Chili.
Whether served with crunchy crackers or topped with creamy sour cream, this dish promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients About Ground Beef Chili
Making your Ground Beef Chili is a breeze, and the ingredients list is straightforward, ensuring that you can whip it up whenever a craving strikes.
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 small green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef (90% lean)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 16 ounce can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 16 ounce can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
Optional toppings for serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced onion
- Sour cream
For serving:
- Saltine crackers
- Oyster crackers
- Fritos
How to Make Ground Beef Chili Directions
Starting your Ground Beef Chili is straightforward and fulfilling. Here is how you can make this fantastic dish in just a few easy steps.
Begin by heating the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. This will be your cooking base and help ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
Add the diced yellow onion and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, allowing them to soften.
Once softened, toss in the minced garlic and continue cooking for about a minute. The fragrance will be delightful and let you know you’re on the right track.
Next, add in the ground beef. Cook this until it’s no longer pink, usually about 5 minutes. Afterward, drain the excess grease and return the pot to low heat. This step is essential as it keeps your chili from becoming overly greasy.
Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients will form the flavor foundation of your chili.
Now it’s time for the spices! Add chili powder, cumin, dry mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, cooking on low heat for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Gradually pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, and finally, the drained beans. Bring this combination to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 minutes. Stir it occasionally to ensure everything is blending beautifully.
After 45 minutes, uncover the pot and continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes. This helps thicken the chili to your desired consistency. You can adjust the thickness with more beef broth if needed.
Once thickened to your liking, your Ground Beef Chili is ready to serve!
How to Serve Ground Beef Chili
When it comes to serving your Ground Beef Chili, the options are endless. You can keep it simple or go all out with a toppings bar. Here are some ideas to make your chili experience even more enjoyable:
Toppings Galore: Offer a selection of toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, and a dollop of sour cream. Each guest can personalize their chili just the way they like it.
Crackers & Chips: Serve your chili alongside crunchy Saltine crackers or a bowl of Fritos. These crunchy options contrast nicely with the smoothness of the chili and add an exciting textural element.
Chili Night Feast: Make it a special occasion by pairing your chili with sides such as cornbread, a fresh green salad, or even nachos for that perfect comfort meal.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a slice of avocado can elevate your dish not only in taste but also in presentation.
Make it a Meal: Serve your chili in bread bowls for a fun twist. This way, you get to enjoy the bread along with the rich flavors of your chili.
As you can see, serving Ground Beef Chili can be as creative as you want it to be!
Expert Tips: Ground Beef Chili
To elevate your Ground Beef Chili even further, consider incorporating these expert tips:
Brown the Meat Properly: When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it into small pieces. This technique allows more surface area to cook, resulting in better flavor.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, and choose good-quality spices to enrich the flavors.
Let it Rest: For the ultimate chili experience, let your chili sit for a while before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Play with Spice Levels: Adjust the spiciness to match your preference. If you like it hotter, consider adding fresh jalapeños or more red pepper flakes.
Experiment with Different Beans: Consider mixing up your beans. Black beans, chickpeas, or even lentils can add a new twist to your traditional chili.
Cook in Advance: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and let it sit overnight in the fridge to let the flavors deepen.
Pair with Beverages: Consider serving chilled beverages like soda, iced tea, or a light beer. These can balance the chili’s warmth while keeping the gathering manageable.
How to Store Ground Beef Chili
If you find yourself with leftover Ground Beef Chili, you’re in luck! Properly storing your chili ensures you can enjoy the deliciousness for days. Here’s how:
Refrigeration: Allow your chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will be good for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: Chili is perfect for freezing. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. Your Ground Beef Chili can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For best results, reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
By following these storage tips, you ensure that the delicious taste of your Ground Beef Chili lasts!
Variation of Ground Beef Chili
While this Ground Beef Chili recipe is outstanding on its own, there are countless unique variations you can create to mix things up:
Southwestern Twist: Add corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, or even zucchini for a fun southwestern flair.
Vegetarian Version: Swap out ground beef for lentils or mushrooms, and boost the vegetable content with peppers, carrots, and celery.
Spicy Chili: If you crave heat, consider adding jalapeños or switch your regular chili powder for a spicier variety.
Chili Mac: Combine cooked pasta to turn your chili into a hearty macaroni dish. Simply stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Chili Verde: Use pork or turkey instead of beef, and switch to tomatillos and green chilies for a bright, zesty variation.
Chili Cheese Fries: Take your chili game to the next level by topping crispy fries with your chili and a sprinkle of cheese.
Taco Chili: Incorporate traditional taco ingredients, such as black beans, avocados, and taco seasoning, for a unique fusion dish.
Each variation can offer a new taste experience, keeping your chili nights exciting and fresh!
FAQ About Ground Beef Chili
What makes Ground Beef Chili different from other chilis?
Ground Beef Chili is brimming with flavor from the combination of spices, ground beef, and beans, showcasing a unique texture and taste that sets it apart from other chili types.
How can I make my Ground Beef Chili thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chili, allow it to simmer uncovered for a longer time, giving the excess liquid a chance to evaporate. You can also mash a portion of the beans and stir them in to thicken the overall consistency.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still provides great flavor, making it an ideal substitute for beef in this recipe.
Can I make this chili in advance for meal prep?
Yes! Ground Beef Chili is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and flavors will even improve overnight in the fridge.
What types of beans can I use?
While kidney and pinto beans are classic choices, you can experiment with black beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas based on your preference.
Ground Beef Chili
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 small green bell pepper seeded and diced
- 1 tsp. garlic minced
- 2 lbs. ground beef (90% lean)
- 3 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. dry mustard
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp. salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper or to taste
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes or to taste
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 28 oz. crushed tomatoes
- 1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
- 16 oz. kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 16 oz. pinto beans rinsed and drained
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well.
- Add chili powder, cumin, dry mustard, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in kidney and pinto beans and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
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