Homemade Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Chili is a comforting, hearty dish packed with rich flavors and satisfying textures. Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days, game nights, or family dinners. This one-pot wonder is easy to prepare, customizable, and even better the next day.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicbell peppertomato pastecrushed tomatoeskidney beansblack beansbeef brothchili powdercuminpaprikaoreganosaltpepperolive oiloptional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.

Add crushed tomatoes, drained beans, and beef broth.

Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 40 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Add corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra veggies.

Spice it up with cayenne pepper or chipotle powder.

For a smoky flavor, stir in a bit of liquid smoke or diced bacon.

Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and doubling the beans.

storage/reheating

Store chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Do I have to use both types of beans?

No, you can use just one type or substitute with pinto or white beans.

How can I thicken my chili?

Simmer longer uncovered or mash some beans for a thicker consistency.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat and sauté veggies first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is this chili spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.

What toppings go well with chili?

Cheese, sour cream, onions, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, and cilantro are great options.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a large enough pot and extend simmering time if needed.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

Water with a bouillon cube or vegetable broth works as a substitute.

Can I serve chili with anything?

Yes, try it with cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips.

How do I know when it’s ready?

It’s ready when the meat is fully cooked, flavors are blended, and the texture is rich.

Conclusion

Homemade Chili is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any table. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or storing leftovers for later, this recipe is a reliable go-to for a delicious, satisfying meal.

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