This beef chili recipe focuses on hearty, comforting flavors. Using lean ground beef and a blend of aromatic spices, it creates a rich, savory dish perfect for any occasion.

⏱ Time: 50 min
👥 Servings: 6-8
📊 Level: Easy
🥗 15 ingredients
️ Hearty Homemade Beef Chili Recipe - Beef chili: cook this incredibly flavorful and hearty recipe for a comforting meal. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night

Hearty Homemade Beef Chili Recipe

Beef chili: cook this incredibly flavorful and hearty recipe for a comforting meal. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
  • ½ Large White Onion (chopped)
  • 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Purée (paste)
  • 1 ½ pounds Lean Ground Beef
  • 1 ½ tablespoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
  • 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz can of kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 15 oz can of pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped white onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor, stirring occasionally. Remove bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Notes

– For extra depth, brown the ground beef until well-caramelized before adding other ingredients. I once rushed this step and the chili lacked that rich umami flavor.
– Ensure the ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
– This chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

  • For extra depth, brown the ground beef until well-caramelized before adding other ingredients. I once rushed this step and the chili lacked that rich umami flavor.
  • Ensure the ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
  • This chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Master this beef chili recipe and adapt it with your favorite toppings and heat levels. Enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

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