This Ground Beef Chili is a cozy bowl of goodness! Filled with tender beef, beans, and spicy tomatoes, it warms you right up on a chilly day.
Plus, it’s so easy to make! I like to add a pinch of cheese on top, because who doesn’t love a cheesy finish? Grab a spoon and enjoy every warm bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor, use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer, yellow or red onions can be used, or you can substitute with leeks for a milder taste.
Beans: Kidney beans add great texture, but black beans or pinto beans are good options too! If you’re cutting carbs, use fewer beans or omit them entirely.
Spices: Chili powder is essential for flavor. If you want to customize the heat, switch cayenne for chipotle powder for a smokier kick, or skip it and add more chili powder instead.
Toppings: Shredded cheese and sour cream are classic toppings! Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute for sour cream. Add avocado slices for creaminess too!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili Has the Best Flavor?
A key part of making delicious chili is building flavors step by step. Start by properly sautéing the onions and garlic; this creates a solid base. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your olive oil over medium heat before adding onions. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t rush the browning of the beef. Allow it to cook until fully browned; this enhances its flavor.
- Toasting spices is crucial. Stir them in after browning the meat and let them cook for a minute to release their aromas.
- Simmer the chili long enough to let everything blend together. About 20-30 minutes is ideal!
Feel free to taste and tweak seasonings while it simmers. A little extra salt or a scoop of sugar can balance flavors beautifully! Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Ground Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Chili takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Just simmer and enjoy the mouth-watering scents as it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it releases a lovely aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, around 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of excess fat, you can drain it off at this stage.
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the spices cook for about a minute to intensify their flavors.
4. Combine Thomas and Beans:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and the drained kidney beans. Add the beef broth for some extra liquid and stir everything well to combine.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen!
6. Final Touches and Serve:
After the chili has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced jalapeños. Enjoy with tortilla chips or your favorite bread!
This recipe will provide a warm, hearty bowl of chili that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, lean ground beef works well! However, be aware that it may produce less flavor than higher-fat options. To keep it juicy, consider adding a splash more broth or tomato sauce.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add More Beans?
Definitely! Feel free to add more beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for added texture and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the spices to accommodate the extra ingredients!
