If you love hearty comfort food that brings people together, the Best Beef Chili Recipe is about to become your new go-to meal. This chili packs big, bold flavor thanks to a rich mix of ground beef, sweet bell peppers, earthy beans, and just the right blend of spices. Whether you’re hosting a game day bash, feeding your family on a chilly weeknight, or simply simmering up something magical for yourself, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for the Best Beef Chili Recipe couldn’t be simpler, but each one truly matters. Every component adds color, depth, or texture, so don’t skip or skimp—these all play a starring role in building that signature chili flavor.
- Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a hint of richness at the base of your chili.
- Chopped onion: Sweetness and depth; a must-have for flavor.
- Minced garlic: Gives your chili an aromatic and irresistible foundation.
- Ground beef: The protein power and heartiness that defines this chili.
- Red bell pepper: Pops of sweetness and color that make every bite vibrant.
- Green bell pepper: Adds fresh crunch and a subtle earthiness.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili naturally.
- Crushed tomatoes: Forms the saucy backbone of the recipe and keeps everything luscious.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds texture and little juicy bursts as you eat.
- Kidney beans: Classic bean for chili—hearty and creamy.
- Black beans: Adds color contrast and creamy bite.
- Chili powder: The main spice for chili’s signature flavor.
- Ground cumin: Warm, toasty notes that make the chili deeply satisfying.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses subtle smoky complexity that’s hard to resist.
- Oregano: Earthy, herbal touch for balance.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: A gentle bite that rounds out the spice blend.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Crank up the heat if you love extra spice.
- Beef broth or water: Adds moisture and helps marry all the flavors together as your chili simmers.
How to Make Best Beef Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot set over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and let them soften, stirring occasionally, for about five to six minutes. Just as they turn translucent and smell sweet, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This is your aromatic foundation for the Best Beef Chili Recipe, releasing savory notes that will infuse every drop of your chili with flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add in all the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Stir frequently as it browns, so you get beautiful little bits and pieces throughout the pot. Once there are no pink spots left, drain any excess fat, but don’t remove all the flavorful juices—those are gold for this dish!
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Tomato Paste
Now stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers, followed by the tomato paste. You want the peppers to begin softening and the tomato paste to meld into everything else, boosting the flavor and starting to give the chili that rich, deep brick-red color. Cook this mixture for two to three minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Time to add the heart and soul of the chili! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, followed by the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans. Stir in your beef broth (or water), and then sprinkle over all the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and, if you’re feeling bold, a bit of cayenne. Mix thoroughly so every spoonful has all those gorgeous flavors working together.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Turn the heat down low and let your chili simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir every now and then to make sure nothing sticks. You’ll notice it thickening up, and the aroma will fill your kitchen. By the end, those flavors will have married into what just might be the Best Beef Chili Recipe you’ve ever tasted. Before serving, taste and tweak the seasoning to your preference.
How to Serve Best Beef Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of toppings! Finish off each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of tangy sour cream, and a handful of chopped green onions. Crumbled tortilla chips, sliced jalapeños, or even a scattering of fresh cilantro are all delicious options that add texture and color.
Side Dishes
The Best Beef Chili Recipe begs for something cozy on the side. Golden cornbread is a classic partner, but fluffy rice, buttery biscuits, or even simple saltine crackers work wonders. You can also serve it with a crisp side salad if you want a fresh crunch along with your chili’s warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress or just have fun, try serving your chili in bread bowls for an extra special presentation. Layer it over hot baked potatoes, use it as a nacho topping, or spoon it into mini mugs for a party-friendly chili bar. This recipe is flexible, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili develops even more flavor as it sits. Once cooled, store any remaining Best Beef Chili Recipe in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen, and the texture stays hearty and satisfying.
Freezing
This chili is a freezer superstar. Portion cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour the chili into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring often. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth. For individual servings, the microwave also works perfectly—just stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I make the Best Beef Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef, onions, and garlic in a skillet first, then add everything else to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
What are the best beans for chili?
Kidney beans and black beans are classic, as used in this recipe. However, you can mix in pinto beans or even chili beans if you like a slightly different texture.
Can I make this chili spicier?
Of course! Add more cayenne pepper, throw in a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers, or use hot chili powder for a bigger kick.
Is this Best Beef Chili Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by nature all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check the labels on your broth and spices to be certain.
What are some fun add-ins for this chili?
Try corn, a squeeze of lime juice, or even chopped chipotle peppers for smoky heat. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable!
Final Thoughts
Inviting and crowd-pleasing, the Best Beef Chili Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll love returning to again and again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature comfort meal! Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and savor every flavorful spoonful—you’ll be so glad you did.
Print
Best Beef Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty beef chili recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavorful spices and beans, this classic chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
Seasonings:
- 1½ tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Beans:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Cook onion until soft, then add garlic.
- Brown Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add Vegetables and Tomatoes: Stir in bell peppers and tomato paste, then add crushed and diced tomatoes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add beans, beef broth, and spices. Simmer.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning, then serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
- Chili can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Enhance with corn, jalapeños, or lime juice for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
