Ground Beef Chili

Name: Ground Beef Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty ground beef chili is a comforting dish, perfect for cold nights or gatherings with friends and family.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:09:35.455Z

This ground beef chili is not just another bowl of meat and beans. It's packed with rich flavors from spices and herbs, making it a favorite for chili lovers. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavor that warms you up from the inside out
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Customizable with your favorite toppings and spices

      

A Hearty Comfort Food

Chili has long been a favorite comfort food for many, and this ground beef version takes that classic dish to new heights. The combination of rich, savory beef with a medley of spices creates a dish that is not only filling but also bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with loved ones.

The beauty of chili lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, whether you like it mild or fiery hot. This recipe serves as a wonderful base that you can personalize with your favorite ingredients, making it a dish that can cater to everyone's tastes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this ground beef chili is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. This not only saves time on busy days but also ensures you have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it.

When reheating, the flavors of the chili deepen even more, making it taste even better the next day. Pair it with some cornbread or over rice for a complete meal that is sure to satisfy your hunger.

Topping Ideas

While this chili is delicious on its own, the right toppings can elevate it to a whole new level. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, shredded cheese for richness, or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Avocado, jalapeños, and lime wedges are also fantastic options that add both flavor and texture.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can even set up a chili bar at your next gathering, allowing guests to customize their bowls according to their preferences. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp olive oil

Feel free to add your favorite chili toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado!

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the chili has thickened to your liking, serve hot with your choice of toppings.

Enjoy your delicious ground beef chili!

Tips for Perfect Chili

To achieve the best flavor in your chili, consider browning the ground beef well before adding the other ingredients. This caramelization adds depth to the overall taste. Additionally, don’t skip the step of letting your chili simmer; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will help reduce the liquid and intensify the flavors. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot!

Serving Suggestions

Chili is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. While it can be enjoyed on its own, serving it with sides can enhance the dining experience. Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad pair perfectly with this dish, providing a balance of flavors and textures.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the chili over rice or baked potatoes. This not only adds more substance but also complements the robust flavors of the chili beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings go well with chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, cilantro, and avocado.