Classic Beef Chili Recipe

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Classic Beef Chili Recipe

This Classic Beef Chili is a hearty, comforting dish packed with robust flavors. Made with tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, it’s perfect for chilly days, game nights, or anytime you’re craving a filling and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

For the Chili:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained

For Toppings (Optional):

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Chopped green onions
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Tortilla chips or cornbread

Optional Additions

  • Corn Kernels: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn for sweetness and texture.
  • Beer: Replace ½ cup of broth with a dark beer for a deeper flavor.
  • Chorizo: Substitute part of the ground beef with chorizo for extra spice.
  • Cocoa Powder: Add 1 teaspoon for a hint of rich, earthy depth.

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  3. Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Incorporate Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
  5. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add Beans: Stir in the kidney beans and black beans. Simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

  1. Cook Low and Slow: Let the chili simmer for a richer, more developed flavor.
  2. Balance the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it for a milder chili.
  3. Consistency: Add more broth or water if you prefer a thinner chili. For a thicker chili, simmer longer uncovered.
  4. Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Description

This Classic Beef Chili is a savory blend of tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a medley of spices, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The smoky undertones of paprika and cumin pair beautifully with the slight heat from cayenne, making every bite warm and comforting.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving; approximately 6 servings)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 680mg

Conclusion

This Classic Beef Chili recipe is a timeless favorite, ideal for casual dinners or feeding a crowd. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Recommendation

Pair your chili with freshly baked cornbread or tortilla chips for the ultimate comfort food experience. Serve it with a crisp green salad for balance, or enjoy it on its own as a complete meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Savor this chili guilt-free by focusing on its nutritious ingredients, like protein-packed beans and nutrient-rich vegetables. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, and opt for low-sodium beans and broth.

Enjoy

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