If you’re searching for the best beef chili recipe ever, your search ends here. This hearty, flavor-packed chili has won multiple chili cook-offs — not just for me, but for readers all across the country! With its rich blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and my secret ingredient (a touch of maple syrup), this chili is the perfect mix of savory, smoky, and just a little sweet.
Why You’ll Love This Chili
This isn’t your average chili — it’s the chili that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- ✅ Award-winning flavor – Tried, tested, and loved by thousands!
- 🍅 Classic ingredients – Ground beef, beans, and tomatoes come together beautifully.
- 🕒 Quick & easy – Ready in under an hour with simple pantry staples.
- 🧡 Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for game day, family dinners, or chilly nights.
The Secret Ingredient
Every great chili needs a little something extra to balance the bold spices — and in this recipe, that secret touch is pure maple syrup. It adds warmth and a subtle sweetness that enhances every savory note.
Don’t have maple syrup? No worries — brown sugar or honey work beautifully too.
Key Ingredients
- Ground beef: Go for 80% or 85% lean for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Tomatoes: This recipe layers tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste for rich, thick texture.
- Beans: A mix of pinto and kidney beans adds heartiness and fiber.
- Chili seasoning: Make your own blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for the best flavor.
- Maple syrup: The secret that makes this chili unforgettable.
How to Make Beef Chili (Step-by-Step)
- Brown the beef: In a large stockpot, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until fully browned.
- Add the flavor: Stir in beans, tomato products, and maple syrup.
- Season and simmer: Add chili spices and broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite chili toppings!
Alternate Cooking Methods
- Slow Cooker: Brown the beef first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Instant Pot: Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot, stir, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
Tips for Thick Chili
Let your chili simmer uncovered to allow extra liquid to evaporate and thicken.
If storing overnight, you’ll notice it naturally thickens — just add a splash of broth when reheating!
Topping Ideas
The right toppings make every bowl of chili even better:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Green onions or chives
- Fritos or tortilla chips
- A dash of hot sauce
Variations to Try
- Different meats: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, bison, or even plant-based ground.
- More beans: Try adding black beans or white beans for extra texture.
- Spice it up: Mix in jalapeños or vinegar-based hot sauce for a kick.
- Tomato twist: Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth that’s incredible!
Leftover Ideas
Got leftovers? Chili is even better the next day — and you can reinvent it, too:
- Chili Baked Potatoes – Spoon chili over baked potatoes and top with cheese.
- Chili Nachos – Layer tortilla chips, chili, and cheese for an easy game-day snack.
- Chili Mac and Cheese – Combine two comfort food classics into one epic meal!
Storage & Freezing
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Final Thoughts
This 5-Star Award-Winning Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food — thick, flavorful, and filled with rich, slow-simmered goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it’s the kind of recipe that turns any meal into a celebration.
Serve it with cornbread, pile on your favorite toppings, and prepare to fall in love with your new go-to chili recipe. ❤️