Hearty Homemade Beef Chili

Cozy up with a bowl of this Hearty Homemade Beef Chili the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights and chilly days! Packed with tender ground beef, beans, and bold spices simmered in a rich tomato base, every spoonful delivers warmth and flavor. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s quick to prep and perfect for family dinners or game nights. You can make it mild or spicy, cook it ahead, and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day. Simple ingredients, big flavor this chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Time Breakdown

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (substitute ground chicken or turkey if preferred )
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp oregano
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• 1–2 tsp hot sauce (for extra heat )
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ tsp brown sugar or maple syrup (to balance acidity)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets — just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board & sharp knife
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Can opener
• Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Brown the beef — In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the veggies — Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the flavor base — Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
4. Simmer the chili — Add crushed tomatoes, beans, and broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust — Add hot sauce, corn, or a touch of sweetness if desired. Simmer another 5 minutes.
6. Serve & garnish — Spoon into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or tortilla chips. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Chili tastes even better the next day refrigerate overnight and reheat for deeper flavor.
• Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered longer, or mash some beans for a creamy texture.
• Slow Cooker Option: Brown beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze portions for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Nutrition Table