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The Best Chili Recipe


  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

This hearty and flavorful chili is packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of warming spices. Perfect for cozy nights, meal prep, or game-day gatherings, this chili is rich, satisfying, and easy to make.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)

Seasonings & Spices:

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce



Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
  2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned (about 7-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

  1. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Step 4: Mix in the Tomatoes & Beans

  1. Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
  2. Stir in the drained kidney beans and black beans.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

  1. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  2. Cover and let simmer for at least 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Taste & Adjust

  1. Adjust seasoning as needed. For a thicker chili, let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Ladle chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
  2. Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or your favorite sides.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes