Description
This homemade chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Made with ground beef, kidney and black beans, tomatoes, and a blend of classic chili spices, it simmers slowly to develop rich, comforting flavors. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this chili is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
Produce
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat
- 1 lb. ground beef
Canned Goods
- 1 15oz. can kidney beans, drained
- 1 15oz. can black beans, drained
- 1 15oz. can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 6oz. can tomato paste
Pantry
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the onion and garlic. Cook until they become soft and translucent, releasing their fragrant aroma.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add Beans and Tomatoes: Drain the kidney and black beans, then add them to the pot along with the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and 1 cup of water. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season the Chili: Add chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne powder, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the pot. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to a low flame. Let the chili simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and develop richness.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust salt or other seasonings as needed. Serve the chili hot, optionally topped with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne powder or add fresh chopped jalapeños.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit ground beef and substitute with extra beans or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with cornbread or over steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Simmering longer than 30 minutes can deepen the flavors even more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
