The Best Classic Chili Recipe

Chili is a dish loved by many for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This classic chili recipe combines ground beef, beans, and spices, creating a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a game day gathering, or just need something cozy for a chilly evening, this recipe will hit the spot.

Why Make This Recipe

This chili recipe stands out because it is easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a dish that is satisfying and delicious. Chili is also a great option for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, and it can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a perfect dish for colder months, making it a staple in many households.

How to Make The Best Classic Chili

Making this chili is simple and straightforward. Follow the step-by-step directions to whip up a pot of cozy goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 1 pound 90% lean ground beef
• 2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 (16 oz.) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce

Directions

1. Add the olive oil to a large soup pot and place it over medium-high heat for two minutes.
2. Add the diced onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well.
6. Bring the liquid to a low boil. Then, reduce the heat (low to medium-low) to gently simmer the chili, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove the pot from the heat. Let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve The Best Classic Chili

Serve your chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs well with cornbread, crackers, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

How to Store The Best Classic Chili

To store leftover chili, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3-4 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make The Best Classic Chili

• Adjust the spice level: If you like it hotter, add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños.
• Let the chili sit: Allowing it to sit for a few hours or overnight can help the flavors develop even more.
• Customize the beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans, like black beans or pinto beans, based on your preference.

Variation

You can turn this classic chili into a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of meat in this chili?
Yes! You can use turkey, chicken, or even make it vegetarian with lentils or veggie crumbles.

2. How do I make chili spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase the heat.

3. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Enjoy making and sharing this classic chili recipe with friends and family! It’s sure to be a hit.

Classic Chili

A hearty and flavorful classic chili recipe made with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 pound 90% lean ground beef

Spices

• 2.5 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional) Add for extra heat

Liquid Ingredients

• 1.5 cups beef broth
• 1 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 16 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 8 oz can tomato sauce

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Add the olive oil to a large soup pot and place it over medium-high heat for two minutes.
• Add the diced onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally.

Cooking

• Add the chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir until well combined.
• Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well.
• Bring the liquid to a low boil. Then, reduce the heat (low to medium-low) to gently simmer the chili, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Remove the pot from the heat. Let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3-4 months.

Keyword Chili, Classic Chili, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Hearty Meal