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Easy Classic Beef Chili Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

This hearty and flavorful Chili Recipe features ground beef, kidney and pinto beans simmered with a blend of spices, tomatoes, and beef broth for a satisfying American classic. Perfect for a cozy main course, it’s easy to prepare in a large Dutch oven and serves up comforting warmth and rich textures.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped (280g)
  • 1 bell pepper, green or red, chopped (140g)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (450g)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 (14.5-ounce/411g) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (8-ounce/226g) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (16-ounce/454g) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (16-ounce/454g) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups beef broth (480mL)

To Serve

  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Tortilla or corn chips
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking and stirring frequently until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink and evenly browned.
  3. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor. Next, add chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and ground black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently until the spices are aromatic.
  4. Add Liquids and Beans: Incorporate the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rinsed kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth into the pot. Scrape the bottom gently to loosen any browned bits, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla or corn chips, and sliced green onions as desired. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful chili!

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
  • For a thicker chili, let it simmer a bit longer uncovered.
  • Beans can be swapped or doubled based on preference.
  • Leftovers taste great and reheat well, making for excellent next-day meals.