When the temperatures drop and you crave something warm and filling, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty beef chili. This rich and flavorful dish is loaded with spices, beans, and tomatoes, making it the perfect comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this beef chili will not disappoint.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp chili powder
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips
Directions:
Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Serving Tips:
Toppings: Enhance your chili experience by offering a variety of toppings. Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and tortilla chips are great options that add flavor and texture.
Accompaniments: Pair your beef chili with cornbread, crusty bread, or rice to create a more filling meal. A side salad can also balance the richness of the chili.
Presentation: Serve the chili in bowls, allowing guests to customize their toppings. For a fun twist, consider serving chili in bread bowls for a unique dining experience.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover beef chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Freezing: Beef chili freezes well! Place cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the containers with the date for easy reference.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, heating in short intervals and stirring to ensure even heating.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of meat for this chili?
Yes! While ground beef is a classic choice for chili, you can substitute it with other meats such as ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef for a chunkier texture. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based meat alternatives or simply increasing the variety of beans and vegetables.
How can I make my chili spicier?
To increase the heat level of your beef chili, you can add more jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or even crushed red pepper flakes. Additionally, try incorporating spicy chili powders or a few dashes of hot sauce. Adjust the spice to your personal taste, adding gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I make beef chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make beef chili in a slow cooker, follow these steps: Sauté the vegetables and ground beef in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop even more!
What are some good side dishes to serve with beef chili?
Beef chili pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Popular options include cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over rice, quinoa, or even baked potatoes for a hearty meal. Don’t forget to offer toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for added flavor!
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a delicious and filling recipe to warm you up this season, give this hearty beef chili a try! It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, and enjoy the comforting embrace of this classic dish today!
📖 Recipe:
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Beef Chili
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in a bowl of hearty beef chili, perfect for chilly days! This flavorful dish is packed with ground beef, beans, and spices, offering a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Topped with cheese and sour cream, this easy beef chili recipe is a family favorite that can be customized to suit your taste. Ideal for meal prep or a cozy gathering, it’s a must-try for chili lovers!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with plant-based meat or increase the amount of beans and vegetables.
Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
This chili can be made in a slow cooker for an even richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6 servings
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
