This Best Beef Chili is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. With tender beef, spicy beans, and rich tomatoes, it’s hearty and comforting.
You can’t go wrong when there’s chili bubbling on the stove! I love serving it with crunchy cornbread, making it warm and inviting—just like a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or a plant-based substitute like lentils or black beans.
Beans: This recipe uses kidney and black beans for texture and protein. If you’re short on time or prefer white beans, cannellini beans work well too. They add a different flavor, but still delicious!
Chili Powder: The best part about chili is the spices! Feel free to adjust based on your taste—try cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. If you want a milder chili, start with less cayenne and add more if you like it spicy.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives freshness to the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute or skip it altogether. It’s not crucial for the overall flavor.
How Do You Get That Rich Chili Flavor?
Cooking the beef and spices properly makes all the difference in flavor. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re really fragrant. This builds the base flavor of your chili.
- Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds deep flavor.
- When adding spices, allow them to cook for a minute. This helps release their oils and aroma, enhancing the overall taste.
- Let the chili simmer! The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together. If you can, let it sit for an hour or make it a day ahead for even more flavor.
Best Beef Chili Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- Sour cream for topping
- Sliced fresh jalapeños (optional)
- Cornbread or tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook. Set aside a little extra time to allow the flavors to meld and savor your cozy evenings with this hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Browning the Beef:
Add the ground beef into the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there is excess fat, feel free to drain it off for a less greasy chili.
3. Adding Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromatic flavors.
4. Building the Chili Base:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Simmering Time:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick. This will help blend all those wonderful flavors.
6. Adding Beans:
Add the drained kidney beans and black beans into the chili. Continue simmering uncovered for another 15-20 minutes. This allows the chili to thicken up and the flavors to deepen. If it gets too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or more beef broth!
7. Final Taste Check:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Maybe it needs a bit more salt or a dash of cayenne for more heat!
8. Serving Time:
Serve the hot chili in bowls, and set out toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for everyone to customize their bowls. Pair it with warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for the ultimate cozy meal!
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful beef chili, all set for those chilly evenings!
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lower-fat substitute for beef. Just keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasonings accordingly to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! For a vegetarian version, use a mix of beans and lentils in place of the ground beef. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well! Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or corn to the chili when you add the beans. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is tender and well-cooked. Enjoy your customized version!
