Nothing beats a bowl of classic chili on a cool evening. This hearty, flavorful chili recipe features bold spices, tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and beans, simmered together to create a warm, comforting dish. Top it with melty cheese, crunchy crackers, and zesty jalapeños for the ultimate chili experience. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, potluck, or game day, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 small green bell peppers (about 2 cups, diced)
- 1 small yellow onion (about 1½ cups, diced)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 15 ounces of water
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 3 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (optional, to reduce acidity)
Substitutions and Additions:
- Ground Beef Substitution: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken.
- Extra Beans: Add black beans, pinto beans, or additional kidney beans for extra fiber and texture.
- Swap Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or more bell peppers for vibrant color and nutrition.
- Smoky Flavors: For a bolder twist, stir in chipotle peppers or smoked paprika.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers and onions. Sauté until the vegetables are translucent and start to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
- Add the Spices: Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, chipotle powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and white pepper. Let the spices cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown the meat until it is fully cooked through. It’s okay if there’s a little pink left as you’ll be simmering it further.
- Add the Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir everything together, ensuring it’s well combined.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Then, stir in the drained kidney beans.
- Optional Baking Soda: To cut the acidity of the tomatoes, add ½ teaspoon of baking soda. The sauce will bubble up, so continue stirring until the bubbles dissipate. Reduce the heat.
- Final Touches: Remove from heat. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Cozy Family Dinners: Serve this chili with cheesy garlic bread to warm up on chilly nights. The mild spice makes it perfect for kids, and the rich flavor will keep everyone satisfied.
- Game Day Parties: Set up a chili bar with various toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and tortilla chips. Let guests build their own custom bowls.
- Holiday Gatherings: For a festive touch, serve this chili alongside a sweet dessert like Jello poke cake.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe:
- Rich, Hearty Flavors: This chili combines tender ground beef, hearty beans, and bold spices into a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Family Favorite: With its comforting flavors and moderate spice level, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you need a quick meal for a gathering.
Chili FAQ:
What kind of pot works best for making chili?
A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best as it ensures even cooking and rich flavor development.
What gives chili its classic flavor?
The combination of simmering ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices creates the savory depth that makes this chili recipe a classic.
How thick should the chili be before serving?
The chili should be thick and robust, with a texture that coats each spoonful.
What temperature is best for serving chili?
Serve your chili hot, right off the stove, for the best flavor.
Should I garnish chili?
Yes, toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced jalapeños add extra flavor and texture.
How much chili should I serve per person?
Serve about 1 to 2 cups per person, depending on appetite.
Storage and Leftovers:
Can I make chili ahead of time?
Yes, chili can be made a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to let the flavors develop.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I freeze chili?
Yes, chili freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months.
How do I reheat chili?
To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
This Classic Chili recipe is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a party, this chili will always be a hit.