Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Classic Chili is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a rich blend of spices. Perfect for cozy nights, game day gatherings, or meal prepping, this chili delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every spoonful. It’s a timeless recipe that never goes out of style.

ingredients

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

ground beefoniongarlicdiced tomatoescrushed tomatoeskidney beanspinto beansbeef brothchili powdercuminpaprikaoreganosaltblack pepperolive oil

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

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

Pour in diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 45 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Stir in a bit of cocoa powder or espresso for deeper richness.

Try adding corn or black beans for variety.

Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and using veggie broth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is this chili spicy?

It has mild heat. Adjust the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or using hot chili powder.

What toppings go well with chili?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips are all great options.

Can I use canned chili beans?

Yes, but be mindful of added seasonings and reduce your own accordingly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Should I drain the beans?

Yes, draining and rinsing the beans helps control the salt and texture.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

You can, but canned tomatoes are more consistent in flavor and texture for this dish.

How do I thicken the chili?

Simmer uncovered longer or mash some beans to create a thicker consistency.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients (especially broth and spices) are certified gluten-free.

Can I serve it with something?

It pairs well with cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips.

Conclusion

The Best Classic Chili is a satisfying, one-pot meal packed with savory beef, hearty beans, and rich tomato flavor. It’s easy to customize and perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later. Whether for dinner, parties, or cozy nights in, this classic chili is always a winning choice.