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The Best Classic Chili

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A hearty, flavorful, and comforting classic chili made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices — perfect for chilly days and gatherings.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup beef broth or water

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and green bell pepper, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  5. Drain excess fat if needed.
  6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and pinto beans.
  7. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  8. Pour in beef broth or water and stir well to combine.
  9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
  • Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg