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Irresistible Beef Chili – Beef Chili Recipe
This beef chili recipe delivers rich, hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe costs under $15 to make and feeds six people generously.
Packed with protein-rich ground beef and fiber-loaded kidney beans, this chili supports muscle health and digestive wellness. The combination of spices boosts metabolism while providing essential antioxidants your body craves.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 50 minutes with simple ingredients you likely have at home
- Provides 25g protein per serving while being budget-friendly at $2.50 per portion
- Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making meal prep effortless
Why This Beef Chili Recipe Works
This recipe balances flavors perfectly by browning the beef first, which creates deep, savory notes. The slow simmering process allows spices to meld while thickening naturally.
Using 80/20 ground beef provides ideal fat content for moisture without greasiness. The combination of chili powder and cumin creates authentic southwestern flavors that satisfy every palate.
Low-sodium beef broth keeps salt levels controlled while kidney beans add texture and nutritional value. This makes it perfect for family dinners, game day parties, or cozy winter meals.
What You’ll Need for This Perfect Beef Chili Recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb (80/20) | Main protein source, provides rich flavor |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium, chopped | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Enhances savory flavor profile |
| Bell pepper | 1, any color, chopped | Adds crunch and vitamins |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Provides acidity and body |
| Kidney beans | 1 can (15 oz), rinsed | Adds fiber and protein |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp | Main spice for authentic flavor |
| Cumin | 1 tsp | Adds earthy, warm notes |
| Beef broth | 2 cups, low-sodium | Creates proper consistency |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning balance |
| Sour cream | For serving | Cooling contrast |
| Fresh cilantro | For garnish | Fresh herb finish |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot or Dutch oven | Main cooking vessel for browning and simmering |
| Wooden spoon | Stirring and breaking up meat |
| Sharp knife | Chopping vegetables |
| Cutting board | Safe prep surface |
| Can opener | Opening canned ingredients |
| Measuring spoons | Accurate spice measurements |
How to Make This Amazing Beef Chili Recipe
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Prep Vegetables | Heat large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until soft, about 5 minutes |
| Step 2: Brown Beef | Add minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking meat into crumbles (7-10 minutes) |
| Step 3: Add Spices | Stir in chili powder and cumin, coating beef evenly. Pour in diced tomatoes with juice |
| Step 4: Combine Ingredients | Add rinsed kidney beans and beef broth. Bring to gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer |
| Step 5: Simmer | Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened to desired consistency |
| Step 6: Serve | Serve hot topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro for best flavor experience |
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Drain excess fat after browning beef to prevent greasy chili
- Taste and adjust spices during last 10 minutes of cooking
- Let chili rest 5 minutes before serving for better consistency
Serving and Storage Tips for This Beef Chili Recipe
Serving Tips
Serve this chili with cornbread, baked potatoes, or over rice for complete meals. Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days in airtight containers. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags.
Reheat gently on stovetop over low heat, adding splash of broth if needed. This recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty casseroles for potluck dinners.
Mistakes to Avoid while making This Beef Chili Recipe
Don’t rush the browning process. Properly browned meat creates the foundation of flavor that makes this chili exceptional.
Avoid adding beans too early in cooking process. They can break down and create mushy texture that ruins the dish.
Never skip the simmering time. Quick cooking prevents flavors from developing properly, resulting in bland, watery chili.
You Must Know
- Ground beef should reach 160°F internal temperature for food safety
- Chili tastes better the next day as flavors continue developing
- Adjust liquid levels during cooking to prevent burning or sticking
Suggestions for Your Beef Chili Recipe
Try different bean varieties like black beans or pinto beans for texture variation. Add corn kernels during last 10 minutes for sweetness and color.
For spicier version, include diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Dark chocolate square adds richness similar to traditional homemade chili recipes.
Make it heartier by adding diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash. These vegetables complement the beef beautifully while adding nutritional value.
Consider serving alongside pasta dishes for diverse meal options that please different tastes.
FAQs:
Yes, brown the beef first, then transfer everything to slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
80/20 ground beef works perfectly. It provides enough fat for flavor without making the chili too greasy.
Simmer uncovered longer to reduce liquid, or mash some beans against pot sides to naturally thicken.
Absolutely! Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Try paprika instead of chili powder, or oregano for cumin. Start with smaller amounts and adjust to taste.
Conclusion
This beef chili recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for meal prep or feeding crowds, it’s become a family favorite.
The combination of affordable ingredients and simple techniques makes this accessible for any cooking skill level. Try this proven chili method and taste the difference.
Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness that brings people together around the dinner table, creating memories one spoonful at a time.
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📖 Recipe Card
Beef Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 25g protein per serving 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful beef chili recipe packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for cold days and feeds a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (80/20) lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, any color, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep Vegetables – Heat large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until soft, about 5 minutes
- Step 2: Brown Beef – Add minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking meat into crumbles (7-10 minutes)
- Step 3: Add Spices – Stir in chili powder and cumin, coating beef evenly. Pour in diced tomatoes with juice
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients – Add rinsed kidney beans and beef broth. Bring to gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer
- Step 5: Simmer – Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened to desired consistency
- Step 6: Serve – Serve hot topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro for best flavor experience
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning beef to prevent greasy chili
- Taste and adjust spices during last 10 minutes of cooking
- Let chili rest 5 minutes before serving for better consistency
- Chili tastes even better the next day – store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: beef chili recipe, ground beef chili, hearty chili, comfort food, easy chili recipe, homemade chili
