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Chili Recipe

Chili Recipe

Hearty and flavorful chili recipe made with simple ingredients. Perfect for cozy dinners, game day, or meal prep. Ready in under an hour!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb(450 g) ground beef (or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • Optional extras: 1diced bell pepper, 1 chopped jalapeño, 1 pinch cocoa powder or dark chocolate, Splash of beer or coffee

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring spoons & cups
  • Can opener

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

  2. Add garlic

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Brown the meat

    Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).Drain excess grease if necessary.

  4. Build the flavor

    Stir in:
    chili powder
    cumin
    smoked paprika
    salt and pepper
    Cook 1 minute to toast the spices.

  5. Add tomatoes and beans

    Mix in:
    diced tomatoes
    tomato paste
    kidney beans
    black beans (optional)
    Stir well.

  6. Pour in broth

    Add 1 cup broth and stir until everything is well combined.

  7. Simmer

    Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.If the chili becomes too thick, add more broth.

  8. Taste and adjust

    Adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder.Add optional extras like cocoa powder, beer, or jalapeños if desired.

  9. Serve

    Serve hot with toppings like:
    shredded cheese
    sour cream
    chopped green onions
    cilantro
    tortilla chips

Notes

This classic homemade chili recipe is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and warm spices like cumin and smoked paprika. It simmers into a rich, thick chili packed with protein and bold flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or meal prep, this easy stovetop chili can also be customized with plant-based meat, extra vegetables, or a touch of dark chocolate for deeper flavor.