ground beef chili recipe

Ground beef chili is a hearty, comforting dish that combines savory meat, beans, tomatoes, and spices for a flavorful one-pot meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you crave something warm and filling.

This recipe is simple to follow, versatile, and can be adapted to suit your spice preference or pantry ingredients. With just a few steps, you’ll have a pot of rich and satisfying chili ready to serve.

Whether topped with cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs, this ground beef chili is a classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients List

– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
– 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, tortilla chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 4: Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beans, and beef broth. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.

Step 6: Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

Serves 6

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 340
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 14g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Pairings/Suggestions

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls. You can also serve it over rice, baked potatoes, or pasta for a filling meal. For added crunch, top with tortilla strips or crushed corn chips.

Seasonal Relevance

Ground beef chili is perfect for fall and winter when warm, hearty meals are most comforting. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for summer cookouts, tailgating, and game day events, making it a year-round classic.

Health Benefits

Chili made with lean ground beef is a good source of protein and iron, supporting muscle health and energy. Beans provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes heart health. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C. With adjustments like reducing salt, swapping leaner meats, or adding extra veggies, this dish can be both delicious and nutritious.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy one-pot meal	Can be high in sodium if canned products aren’t rinsed
Rich in protein and fiber	May be too spicy for some if heat is not adjusted
Customizable with toppings and add-ins	Requires simmering for best flavor
Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep	Not ideal for those avoiding red meat

Conclusion

This ground beef chili recipe is a timeless comfort food that’s rich, flavorful, and simple to prepare. Packed with tender beef, beans, and aromatic spices, it delivers a hearty meal in under an hour.

Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or big gatherings, this chili is versatile, satisfying, and guaranteed to please. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Q2: Can I make it without beans?
Absolutely. Simply omit the beans for a bean-free chili and add extra meat or vegetables if desired.

Q3: What’s the best way to thicken chili?
You can let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid or stir in a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina.

Q4: Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative without changing the overall flavor too much.

Q5: How can I make it spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños while cooking to increase the heat level.