Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of beef chili on a cold day or when you’re craving something deeply satisfying. This classic dish combines tender ground beef, rich tomatoes, aromatic spices, and beans to create a bold and comforting meal. Whether served on its own, with a side of cornbread, or over rice, hearty beef chili is a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
Ingredients for the Perfect Hearty Beef Chili
To make a delicious pot of beef chili, you will need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil, then sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Add the Seasonings
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about a minute to enhance the flavors.
4. Combine the Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors develop.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hearty beef chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños. Pair it with cornbread or a crusty baguette for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Hearty Beef Chili
- Use quality beef: Opt for lean ground beef (85/15) for the best balance of flavor and texture.
- Let it simmer: The longer the chili simmers, the richer the flavors become.
- Customize the spice level: Adjust the chili powder and cayenne pepper to match your heat preference.
- Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I freeze hearty beef chili?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
3. What can I substitute for beans?
If you prefer a no-bean chili, you can replace the beans with extra ground beef or add chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
4. How do I make this chili spicier?
Increase the amount of cayenne pepper, add diced jalapeños, or stir in some hot sauce for an extra kick.
5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust seasoning as turkey has a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Hearty beef chili is a timeless and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests at a gathering, this chili recipe is sure to impress. Packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of delicious, homemade chili!
