Hearty Ground Beef Chili Recipe – Quick, Easy & Flavorful Dinner Idea!

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Ground Beef Chili
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Table of Contents: Ground Beef Chili

When the weather cools down or you’re craving something hearty and comforting, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of GROUND BEEF CHILI. This CLASSIC CHILI RECIPE is more than just food—it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or easy weeknight meals. Packed with bold flavors, tender ground beef, and a rich tomato base, this EASY HOMEMADE CHILI is guaranteed to become your go-to recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and adaptable to your taste. Let’s dive into why this is the BEST EVER CHILI RECIPE you’ll ever make!

Introduction: GROUND BEEF CHILI

There’s something magical about a steaming pot of GROUND BEEF CHILI simmering on the stove. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing people together with its rich, hearty flavors and versatility. This CLASSIC CHILI RECIPE is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering, enjoying a casual family dinner, or looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

What makes this the BEST EVER CHILI RECIPE? It’s the perfect balance of spices, tender ground beef, and a savory tomato base that’s infused with depth and warmth. This EASY HOMEMADE CHILI is also incredibly adaptable—add beans, switch up the heat level, or top it with your favorite garnishes. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and exciting every time you make it.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep and a slow simmer, you’ll achieve a chili that’s rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re serving it over rice, scooping it up with tortilla chips, or enjoying it straight from the bowl, this GROUND BEEF CHILI is sure to become a family favorite.

Alternate Names & Variations

This GROUND BEEF CHILI goes by many names, depending on who you ask. Some call it CLASSIC CHILI, while others refer to it as Texas Chili or Homestyle Chili. If you’re searching for similar recipes, you might also look for Easy Beef Chili, Spicy Chili, or Vegetarian Chili (for a meat-free twist).

For variations, try adding different types of beans, like black beans or kidney beans, or experiment with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. The BEST EVER CHILI RECIPE is yours to customize!

Ingredients: GROUND BEEF CHILI

Ground Beef Chili

Ground Beef Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to make this EASY HOMEMADE CHILI:

  • – 1 lb lean GROUND BEEF
  • – 1 medium ONION, finely chopped
  • – 3 cloves GARLIC, minced
  • – 1 RED BELL PEPPER, diced
  • – 1 can (15 oz) KIDNEY BEANS, drained and rinsed
  • – 1 can (15 oz) TOMATO SAUCE
  • – 1 can (15 oz) DICED TOMATOES
  • – 2 cups BEEF BROTH
  • – 2 tbsp CHILI POWDER
  • – 1 tsp GROUND CUMIN
  • – 1 tsp SMOKED PAPRIKA
  • – 1/2 tsp CAYENNE PEPPER (optional, for heat)
  • – SALT and PEPPER to taste
  • – 2 tbsp OLIVE OIL

Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Cook the Beef: Add the GROUND BEEF and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.

5. Combine Ingredients: Add the kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to 1 hour.

7. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Chef Tip: For a smokier flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke or use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.

Recipe Card Block

This GROUND BEEF CHILI takes just 15 minutes to prep and cooks in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It serves 4–6 people, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This CLASSIC CHILI RECIPE works because it’s simple, flavorful, and adaptable. The combination of toasted spices, tender beef, and a rich tomato base creates a chili that’s satisfying and comforting.

For the BEST EVER CHILI RECIPE, use fresh spices and high-quality beef. Simmering the chili for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To make it even easier, prepare it in a slow cooker—just brown the beef and sauté the veggies beforehand.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftover EASY HOMEMADE CHILI in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

People Also Ask: GROUND BEEF CHILI

Ground Beef Chili

Ground Beef Chili

What is the Secret to Making the Best Chili?

The secret lies in toasting the spices and simmering the chili slowly. This allows the flavors to develop fully. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients like ground beef and spices also makes a big difference.

How Long Should You Let Chili Simmer?

For optimal flavor, let your chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, simmering for up to 1 hour will deepen the flavors even more.

What Are the Best Toppings for Chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Crushed tortilla chips or a dollop of guacamole also add great texture and flavor.

How Do You Thicken Up Chili?

To thicken chili, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes. You can also mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it into the chili until thickened.

Conclusion: GROUND BEEF CHILI

There you have it—the BEST EVER GROUND BEEF CHILI recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this EASY HOMEMADE CHILI is a dish that never disappoints. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments or tag us on social media!

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Ground Beef Chili

Ground Beef Chili

  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A hearty and comforting ground beef chili packed with spices, beans, and rich tomato flavor — perfect for cold nights or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  5. Drain excess fat if needed.
  6. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  7. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
  8. Pour in diced tomatoes, both beans, and beef broth. Stir well.
  9. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cover partially.
  10. Simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors are developed.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or jalapeños. Can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: ground beef chili, chili recipe, beef, beans, hearty stew