This classic chili combines ground meat, beans, and a flavorful mix of spices for a warm, hearty dish. Perfect for chilly days or a family gathering!
Making chili is like a hug in a bowl! I love tossing in extra toppings like cheese and sour cream. It makes every spoonful feel even more special! 😋
What’s great about this chili is how easy it is to make. Just brown the meat, mix in everything else, and let it simmer. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds richness, but you can use turkey or veggie meat for a lighter option. If you want more flavor, try using a blend of meats like beef and pork!
Kidney Beans: These beans are classic in chili, but you can swap them for black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different twist. Canned beans save time but dried beans work well, too — just soak and cook them first.
Spices: Chili powder is a must for that iconic flavor. If you want a unique taste, try adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro can replace oregano for a different vibe.
Canned Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh, use about 2 cups of diced tomatoes. Also, crushed tomatoes can make your chili thicker and richer.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Without All the Fat?
Cooking ground beef can sometimes leave you with too much grease. Here’s how to handle it:
- Use a leaner beef (like 90% lean) to begin with, which has less fat.
- Cook the beef fully in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it apart until it’s no longer pink.
- Once cooked, place the beef in a strainer over a bowl to drain the fat, then return the meat to the pot.
This way, you’ll keep your chili tasty without it being greasy!
What’s the Best Way to Enhance the Flavor While it Simmer?
The simmer time is key for flavor! Here are some tips:
- Allow it to simmer on low heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. Longer cooking (up to 2 hours) lets the flavors mingle even more.
- Every so often, taste and adjust the seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or chili powder based on what you prefer.
- If you like it spicy, toss in more cayenne or even some jalapeños.
Following these steps ensures your chili comes out bursting with flavor!
Classic Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground chuck)
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and 30-40 minutes for cooking. Overall, plan for about 50 minutes to have your warm, comforting classic chili ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and fragrant.
2. Adding Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s well browned and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it off.
4. Mixing in the Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if you want some heat). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mix for 1-2 minutes to help bring out those wonderful flavors.
5. Combining Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the delicious ingredients!
6. Simmering the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This is when all the flavors come together beautifully! Remember to stir occasionally.
7. Final Seasoning:
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you like it spicier.
8. Serving Time:
Serve your classic chili hot, and feel free to top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions or chives if you’d like.
9. Enjoy!
If you’re feeling extra cozy, pair your chili with some cornbread or tortilla chips. Enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of this classic dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is fully cooked.
What Can I Use Instead of Kidney Beans?
If you’re not a fan of kidney beans, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas instead. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans well before adding them to your chili!
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last in the Fridge?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. You can also freeze it for longer storage — it keeps well for 2-3 months in the freezer!
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like your chili with a kick, add more cayenne pepper, or try including some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. Just start with a small amount and taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!