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The Best Ground Beef Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A hearty and flavorful ground beef chili packed with a blend of spices, beans, and tomatoes. This comforting one-pot meal simmers slowly to develop rich, deep flavors perfect for a cozy dinner or game day feast.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef

Spices

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Canned Ingredients & Liquids

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth


Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to ensure a leaner chili.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.
  3. Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to toast the spices and intensify their flavors.
  4. Mix in Main Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together until fully combined.
  5. Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and help meld the flavors.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños during the sauté step.
  • Use lean ground beef (90% lean) to reduce fat content and avoid greasy chili.
  • Beans can be substituted or combined with pinto beans if preferred.
  • Leftover chili tastes great the next day as flavors deepen over time.
  • Top chili with avocado, cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.