This hearty Ground Beef Chili is sure to warm you up! Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s a tasty dish for any occasion.
You can top it with cheese or sour cream, and you’ll feel like a kitchen hero! I love making a big pot so I have leftovers for the week—because who doesn’t love a quick meal?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer, substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Some even like using plant-based ground meat if aiming for a vegetarian chili.
Beans: Kidney beans add great texture, but black beans or pinto beans also work well. If you’re in a pinch, canned beans can be swapped with cooked lentils for added fiber.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes can be used if they’re in season. Just chop them up and add 1-2 cups, adding some extra seasoning since fresh tomatoes can be a bit milder.
Spices: Chili powder is the star here for flavor. If you like it hot, add extra cayenne or even some chili flakes. For a smokier taste, consider adding chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Chili?
Building flavor in chili is all about layering ingredients and taking your time with each step. Start by sautéing the onions until they’re soft; this adds a sweet base note.
- Cook the minced garlic for just a short time to keep its flavor bright, then add the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. Browning really enhances flavor!
- Toast the spices briefly in the beef to release their oils and deepen their flavor, giving your chili a rich profile.
- Simmer gently to meld all the flavors together. Stir it occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick.
Don’t forget to taste and tweak the seasoning before serving. A squeeze of lime juice at the end can really brighten everything up!
How to Make Delicious Ground Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. It’s a quick recipe that will warm you up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. If you’re adding onion, throw it in first, and sauté until it softens (about 3-4 minutes). This will make your chili extra flavorful!
2. Add Garlic and Ground Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful aroma. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink.
3. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like heat), salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to let those flavors really pop.
4. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat and bring the chili to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Stir it occasionally and watch it thicken.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. More salt? A bit more spice? You decide!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls, and don’t forget the toppings! Add shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, and a wedge of lime for some zing. Enjoy every comforting bite of your ground beef chili!
Feel free to get creative with toppings or make it your own with additional ingredients, like bell peppers or corn!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may be less flavorful than beef, so you might want to adjust your seasonings a bit.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing and freezing.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This chili recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini. Just chop them up and sauté them with the onions at the beginning for the best results.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chili?
You can reheat chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. If it’s too thick after being stored, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
