Classic Chili with Ground Beef

Classic Chili with Ground Beef is a comfort food favorite that combines tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a perfect blend of spices into a rich, hearty stew. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, game days, or casual family dinners.

The beauty of this chili is its simplicity yet depth of flavor. Slow simmering allows the beef to absorb the seasonings while the beans and tomatoes meld together, creating a robust, savory, slightly spicy dish. Topped with cheese, sour cream, or green onions, it’s a meal that pleases every palate.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comforting, filling, and incredibly easy to make. Ground beef cooks quickly, and the chili can simmer gently while you attend to other tasks. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even better than the first day.

It’s also highly versatile, allowing you to adjust the heat, add vegetables, or make it richer with additional toppings.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Hearty and satisfying: Full of protein, fiber, and flavor.
• Easy to make: Minimal prep, one pot, and hands-off simmering.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels, beans, or vegetables to taste.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for leftovers: Flavors improve over a day or two.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~350–400 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish / Stew
• Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 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
• 1–2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
2. Brown the ground beef.
3. Add spices, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
4. Stir in beans.
5. Simmer until thick and flavors meld.
6. Serve hot with optional toppings.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.
3. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown Ground Beef

1. Add ground beef to the pot.
2. Cook 5–7 minutes until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Spices

1. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Cook 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.

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Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, and Broth

1. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
2. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Add Beans

1. Add drained kidney beans and black beans.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste chili and adjust seasonings if needed.
2. If chili is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water.

Step 7: Serve

• Ladle chili into bowls.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro as desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice.
• Add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or pickled onions for extra flavor.
• Perfect for meal prep or family-style dinners.

Recipe Tips

• Simmer gently: Allows flavors to develop without burning the bottom.
• Use fresh spices: Chili powder and cumin taste best when fresh.
• Customize heat: Adjust cayenne or chili powder to your liking.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for more texture.
• Thicker chili: Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes.

Variations

1. White Bean Chicken Chili: Swap beef for chicken and red beans for white beans.
2. Vegetarian Chili: Omit beef and add more beans, corn, or bell peppers.
3. Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef and onions, then add all ingredients to slow cooker; cook on low 6–8 hours.
4. Spicy Chili: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce.
5. Tex-Mex Chili: Top with tortilla strips, guacamole, or shredded cheese.

Freezing and Storage

To Store:

• Refrigerate in airtight containers for 3–4 days.

To Freeze:

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for 2–3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot, Dutch oven, or deep skillet
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Conclusion

Classic Chili with Ground Beef is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, savory beans, rich tomatoes, and bold spices, this chili is a family-friendly, versatile, and easy-to-make meal that warms the soul.

✨ Whether served with cornbread, over rice, or in a bowl with toppings, this chili is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.