Description
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe combines lean ground beef, aromatic spices, and a medley of beans and tomatoes simmered to perfection. Perfect for a comforting meal, it balances savory and spicy notes with a subtle sweetness from brown sugar and the rich depth of beer and beef broth. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, this chili is easy to prepare and yields a satisfying dish that can be topped with your favorite garnishes like cheddar cheese and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can)
- 19 ounces canned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup beer
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 ½ tablespoons chili powder (divided; or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Season the beef: In a bowl, combine the lean ground beef with 1 ½ tablespoons of chili powder. Mix well to evenly coat the meat with the spices.
- Brown the meat and aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned ground beef, diced onion, finely diced jalapeño, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked and the vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the chili from being greasy.
- Add remaining ingredients and simmer: Into the pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of chili powder, cumin, diced green bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with their juices, drained kidney beans, beef broth, beer, tomato paste, and optional brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili reduces and thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve and garnish: Once the chili is thick and flavorful, ladle it into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or any other favorite toppings you desire.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add extra chili powder.
- The beer adds depth; if you prefer, substitute with additional beef broth.
- Brown sugar is optional but balances acidity from the tomatoes.
- Simmer uncovered to allow the chili to thicken; cover if you prefer a thinner consistency and reduce simmer time.
- This chili can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
