Hey y'all! If you're craving a big, comforting bowl of chili packed with flavor and beefy goodness, you’ve landed in the right spot. This Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—rich, satisfying, and loaded with savory spices and tender beef. Whether you're hosting a game day, hunkering down on a chilly night, or just feeding a hungry family, this chili hits the spot every time. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is packed with bold spices and juicy, slow-simmered beef.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day and freezes like a dream.
- Easy to Customize: Spice it up, make it mild, or add your favorite fix-ins.
- Filling & Family-Friendly: A hearty meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up for maximum comfort!
Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef: Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for richness)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15-oz) cans kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 2 (15-oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add diced onion, bell pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until vegetables are soft and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 3: Spice Things Up
Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, sugar, cayenne, salt, and black pepper over the beef and veggie mix. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to "bloom" the spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix until combined, then add kidney beans. Bring to a simmer, cover with lid slightly ajar, and cook on low for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili is thick and flavors meld.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Taste, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Notes for Best Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef
- For a smoky flavor, substitute chipotle chili powder for regular.
- This recipe gets even better after a night in the fridge—make it ahead for parties!
- Learn more about the health benefits of beans in chili at Healthline.
Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef: Variations
- Turkey Chili: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Option: Use extra beans and add corn or diced zucchini for a meat-free chili.
- Spicy Chili: Stir in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Required Equipment for Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Can opener
- Measuring spoons and cups
Storage Instructions for Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef
Allow chili to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze chili in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Top with shredded cheddar, sour cream, diced onions, or fresh cilantro.
- Serve alongside cornbread, tortilla chips, or over fluffy white rice.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or a cold beer for a classic combo.
Pro Tips for the Best Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef
- Let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- Use a mix of beans (like pinto and black) for extra texture and nutrition (Bon Appétit).
- For more depth, add a teaspoon of cocoa powder—trust me, it works! Check out this tip and more at Serious Eats.
Chili Recipe with Hearty Beef: FAQs
- Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend. - Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and sauté veggies first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. - How do I make it less spicy?
Simply omit the cayenne pepper and use mild chili powder. You can also add a dollop of sour cream when serving to mellow the heat.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
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1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove beef and set aside.
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2In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
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3Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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4Return browned beef to the pot. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
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5Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors meld.
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6Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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