Introduction to Beef Chili
Beef chili is the ultimate comfort food: warm, hearty, and packed with rich flavors. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also made with pantry staples, so you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. By following these easy steps, you’ll soon have a delicious chili ready to enjoy with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious beef chili, first gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: For even more flavor, you might add a diced bell pepper or a cup of corn kernels.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
First, in a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. While it cooks, break it into small pieces to ensure even browning. Once it is fully cooked, be sure to drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. After a few minutes, as the onion becomes translucent, it will begin to release a lovely aroma, signaling that it’s ready.
3. Add the Spices
Afterward, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, stir well to coat the beef, onion, and garlic. This step is important as it allows the spices to infuse the mixture with a deep, rich flavor.
4. Add Beans and Tomatoes
Now, add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes (including the juices) to the pot. At this point, stir everything together thoroughly to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the Chili
Finally, let the chili cook, uncovered, for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this simmering time, the flavors will meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply satisfying dish.
Serving Suggestions
When your chili is ready, serve it hot with your favorite toppings—such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread or a simple green salad on the side, making it ideal for a cozy night in.
Additional Tips
- For extra heat: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeño.
- For a thicker chili: Simply stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste before adding the beans and tomatoes.
- For a smoky flavor: Consider substituting smoked paprika for regular paprika.
Why You’ll Love This Chili
Overall, this classic beef chili is perfect for meal prep and only gets better as the flavors develop over time. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or you’re just craving comfort food, this dish will surely warm you up and satisfy every bite.
