Description
This homemade chili is thick, hearty, and packed with bold flavors from ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and smoky spices. It’s a perfect comfort food for chilly nights, game days, or meal prep—simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying! 🌶️🍲🔥
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
- 1/2 cup onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained & rinsed)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans or pinto beans (drained & rinsed)
- 1 cup beef broth or water (for desired consistency)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (for richness)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lime juice (for a touch of acidity)
For the Spice Blend:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Topping (Optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro or green onions
- Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef (and olive oil if needed) and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in onions and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Beans & Liquid
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar/lime juice.
Step 3: Add Spices & Simmer
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
- Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If too thick, add more broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
- Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, or your favorite toppings!
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add extra cayenne, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap meat for extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.