Looking for a comforting dish that packs a punch? This beef chili recipe is the perfect blend of spices, tender beef, and hearty beans. Ideal for chilly nights or game day gatherings, it’s sure to please a crowd. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create this flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 8g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve hot, topped with optional ingredients like cheese and sour cream.
9. Pair with tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
10. Enjoy your hearty beef chili!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this chili. Additionally, canned vegetables can be used instead of fresh ones, and you can add corn for extra sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
This beef chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad. Top with avocado slices or serve alongside tortilla chips for a perfect match.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat or microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not browning the beef properly can lead to a less flavorful chili.
- Skipping the spices will result in a bland dish.
- Overcooking the beans can make them mushy.
- Using low-quality beef can affect texture and flavor.
- Not allowing the chili to simmer long enough can prevent flavors from developing.
Helpful Tips
- Let the chili rest for a few hours or overnight for better flavor.
- Adjust spice levels to your preference by adding more chili powder.
- Experiment with different beans for varied texture.
- Use fresh herbs as a garnish for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I make beef chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the beef and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a deep flavor.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
Vegetable broth or water can be used as a substitute if you prefer a lighter flavor.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level can be adjusted easily by varying the amount of chili powder and adding jalapeños.
Can I add vegetables to the chili?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, and zucchini make great additions for more nutrition and flavor.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, this beef chili recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten ingredients.
Conclusion
This beef chili recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it brings warmth and comfort to any table. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients that make this dish a favorite for many!

Beef Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
- Drain excess fat and add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with optional ingredients.
- Pair with tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
- Enjoy your hearty beef chili!