Nothing beats the cozy, hearty goodness of the Best Chili Recipe when the weather calls for something bold, comforting, and full of flavor. This chili is a perfect balance of savory ground beef, vibrant beans, and a symphony of spices that develop deep, smoky heat with just the right kick. Whether you’re cooking for a gathering or craving a satisfying solo meal, this recipe brings friends and family together around the table with its rich color, inviting aroma, and unbeatable taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the length of this ingredients list intimidate you—each one is simple yet essential, delivering a unique layer of flavor, texture, and color that makes this the Best Chili Recipe around. From the hearty beans to the punchy spices, every component works in harmony to create something truly special.
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef: The protein base that brings richness and body to the chili.
- 1 red onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch once sautéed.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Contributes vibrant color and a mild, fruity flavor.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained: Classic chili bean that offers creaminess and heft.
- 1 can pinto beans, drained: Adds soft texture and extra heartiness.
- 1 can black beans, drained: Brings earthy depth and contrast to the mix.
- 2 cups beef stock: Deepens the savory flavor and gives the chili a luscious broth.
- 1 can tomatoes (15 oz, Fire Roasted with juice): Infuses smoky sweetness that intensifies the overall taste.
- 1 can tomato paste (6 oz): Thickens the chili and adds concentrated tomato richness.
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional): For those who love a little heat and fresh peppery notes.
- 1 tablespoon oregano (dried): Offers a touch of herbal brightness.
- 2 teaspoons cumin: Provides earthy warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder: Adds subtle complexity and richness you never expect in chili.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (ground): Gives a slight bite to the dish.
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika: Brings a smoky, mild chili flavor without overpowering heat.
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a gentle citrusy note.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The star spice that ties the flavor profile together.
- 1 tablespoon garlic (minced): Brings bold, savory undertones.
- Sour cream for topping: Cool and creamy contrast for serving.
- Fresh cilantro for topping: Adds a fresh burst that lifts the whole bowl.
- Shredded cheese for topping: Melts delightfully into warm chili for extra indulgence.
How to Make Best Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned all over—this step builds the foundation of flavor you’ll taste in every bite. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the chili hearty but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Bell Peppers
Add your chopped red onion and red bell pepper to the pot and sauté them until they become tender and slightly caramelized. This adds natural sweetness and soft texture to the chili, creating a flavorful base that melds perfectly with the spicy elements.
Step 3: Combine Beans, Tomatoes, and Stock
Next, stir in the drained kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans. Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato paste followed by the beef stock. This trio provides color, body, and that rich tomatoey essence that defines a hearty chili.
Step 4: Season and Spice It Up
Time to add those incredible spices! Toss in oregano, cumin, cocoa powder, smoked paprika, coriander, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic, and minced jalapeño if using. Stir everything well to ensure every ingredient gets a chance to shine and contribute layers of flavor.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let your chili cook for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together, thickening the chili naturally while giving you that best-ever depth and richness.
How to Serve Best Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The fun part: topping your chili! A dollop of sour cream adds a cool creaminess that balances the spice, a sprinkle of shredded cheese brings melty, indulgent goodness, and fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness. These garnishes transform each bowl into a personalized delight.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs like a dream with a warm side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that saucy goodness. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad to lighten up the meal or with classic tortilla chips for some crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve your Best Chili Recipe in individual bread bowls or over a bed of steamed rice for a comforting twist. For a fun party idea, turn it into a chili bar with all the toppings laid out, letting everyone customize their bowls just how they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chili is one of those magical dishes that tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen and improve overnight, making great lunches or dinners a breeze.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, allowing you to have a hearty meal ready whenever you need it. Portion your chili into freezer-safe containers, label them, and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for meal prep or comforting cold-weather days on demand.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or beef stock if it seems too thick. Microwave works fine too, but stirring halfway helps it heat evenly and maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative, extra beans, or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Keep the same spices and stock, but use vegetable stock to keep it vegetarian-friendly without losing flavor.
How spicy is this chili?
This recipe offers a medium heat level thanks to the jalapeño and chili powder. You can adjust the amount of jalapeño or leave it out entirely if you prefer mild chili. For more heat, add diced chipotle peppers or cayenne pepper.
Is cocoa powder a common ingredient in chili?
While it might sound surprising, cocoa powder adds a subtle richness and depth of flavor that complements the spices and meat. It’s a secret trick used in many great chili recipes to enhance complexity without tasting like chocolate.
Can I use canned beans without rinsing?
Draining and rinsing canned beans is recommended to reduce excess sodium and remove some of the canning liquid’s starchy taste. Rinsed beans also help maintain the chili’s thick texture without becoming too watery.
What’s the best way to thicken my chili?
If your chili is thinner than you like, continue simmering uncovered to let extra liquid evaporate. You can also stir in a small spoonful of tomato paste or a slurry of corn starch and water for a quicker thickening effect.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Best Chili Recipe is more than just making a meal—it’s about creating a warm, inviting experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with satisfaction. Whether it’s a relaxed weeknight dinner or your next get-together’s star dish, dive in and enjoy every savory, spicy bite. You’ll soon see why this recipe earns its title as the best chili around, once you share it with your favorite people.
Print
Best Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe combines ground beef, a mix of beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a blend of bold spices. Simmered slowly to meld all the flavors, this classic comfort food is perfect for family gatherings or cozy meals. Topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro, it’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone around the table.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
Beans
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can pinto beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
Liquids
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 can tomatoes (15 oz, Fire Roasted with juice)
- 1 can tomato paste (6 oz)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon oregano (dried)
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (ground)
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
Toppings
- Sour cream for topping
- Fresh cilantro for topping
- Shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned thoroughly. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the chili from being greasy.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped red onion and red bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Stir and sauté until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Add beans and liquids: Stir in the drained kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and beef stock. This combination builds the hearty base of the chili.
- Season the chili: Mix in the minced garlic, jalapeño (if using), oregano, cumin, cocoa powder, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and chili powder. Stir well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer flavors: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer gently for at least 45 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken slightly.
- Serve and garnish: Once cooked, ladle the hot chili into bowls and garnish with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro as desired. Serve warm for an inviting and delicious meal.
Notes
- To adjust spiciness, omit or reduce the jalapeño.
- For a thicker chili, simmer longer or add additional tomato paste.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a vegetarian version, omit meat and increase the variety and quantity of beans and vegetables.
