Description

This classic chili recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices to create a rich, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. With its robust flavors from chili powder, cumin, and fresh vegetables, it’s a comforting meal that can be easily customized to your heat preference by adding jalapeños. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this chili delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb ground beef (or your choice of ground meat)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for heat)

Spices and Seasonings

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Beans and Tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (or pinto or black beans)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

Liquids

1 cup beef or chicken broth (or 1/2 cup beer and 1/2 cup broth for added flavor)

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Instructions

Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the kidney beans to remove excess salt and starch.
Brown the meat: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and jalapeño to the browned meat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Add spices: Stir in the chili powder and ground cumin, coating the meat and vegetables evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Combine remaining ingredients: Pour in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (including juice), tomato sauce, and beef or chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine.
Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Season and serve: Taste the chili and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

For increased depth of flavor, substitute half the broth with beer as suggested.
Feel free to customize the heat by adjusting the jalapeño quantity or omitting it entirely for a milder chili.
If you prefer, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Leftover chili tastes great the next day as flavors continue to develop.
Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American