Chili is the ultimate communal food. Whether it is simmering on the stove for a football Sunday or serving as a quick weekday dinner, a great chili should be thick, deeply flavorful, and perfectly balanced. This recipe uses a blend of ground beef, kidney beans, and a carefully selected mix of spices to create a classic American chili that satisfies every craving. It is a versatile dish that only gets better the next day, making it the king of leftover-friendly meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for Tailgating
Chili is built for crowds. It can be made in massive quantities and kept warm in a slow cooker for hours. It is the definitive comfort food for outdoor gatherings, providing warmth and energy when the weather turns crisp.
Bold Spice Highlights
The depth of this chili comes from a combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. We also add a touch of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a dark, earthy complexity that makes this recipe stand out from the rest.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 28 oz diced tomatoes
- 8 oz tomato sauce
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions and peppers; cook until soft. Stir in garlic and spices.
- Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beans. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook on low heat for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ground Chuck (80/20) provides the perfect amount of fat for flavor. Canned kidney beans add a creamy texture, while diced tomatoes and tomato sauce create the necessary body for the stew.
Smart Substitutions
For a leaner version, use ground turkey. If you want a bean-free version, simply omit the beans and double the amount of meat. For those who love heat, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
| Topping | Flavor Contribution | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Sour Cream | Cooling/Tangy | Creamy |
| Cheddar Cheese | Savory/Sharp | Melty |
| Green Onions | Fresh/Mild | Crunchy |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Dice your onions and bell peppers into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic and gather all your spices. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat, leaving just a little for flavor.
Cooking Phase
Add the onions and peppers to the beef and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and spices, cooking for one minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and drained beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 45 minutes to let the flavors marry.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The “Long Simmer” is the most important part of making chili. While the ingredients are technically cooked quickly, the flavors don’t truly develop until the aromatics and spices have had time to meld into the tomato base. If you have the time, let it simmer for two hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t forget to drain and rinse your beans! The liquid in the can is often salty and metallic, which can ruin the clean flavor of your chili. Also, make sure to brown your meat thoroughly to build a deep savory foundation.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve in large bowls with a “topping bar” on the side. This allows everyone to customize their bowl with cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Pairing Suggestions
Chili and cornbread are a match made in heaven. Serve a big bowl of this chili alongside Hamburger Meat Recipes Dinner Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe if you are hosting a large “ground beef” themed family gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the meat first, then throw everything into the slow cooker on Low for 6 to 8 hours.
Q2: How do I make my chili thicker?
You can mash a few of the beans against the side of the pot, or stir in a tablespoon of cornmeal during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Q3: Is chili better the next day?
Yes! As chili sits, the spices continue to penetrate the meat and beans, making it even more flavorful on day two.
Conclusion
Chili Recipe Easy Homemade Best Chili Recipe is a reliable classic that never goes out of style. It is easy enough for a beginner but flavorful enough to win a cook-off. With its rich tomato base and hearty ingredients, it is the ultimate way to feed a family and keep them coming back for more.
