This ground beef chili is a warm and comforting dish packed with hearty flavors. It’s loaded with tender beef, beans, and a blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance!
Making this chili is a breeze! I love how it simmers gently, filling my kitchen with a delicious smell. Perfect for chilly nights or game day gatherings—everyone will be asking for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 beef for a great balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10. You could also swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version!
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onions work best here for a sweet, rich flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) can be a quick substitute in a pinch!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a juicy base. If you’re up for it, fresh tomatoes can also be used—just peel and chop them. For a spicier kick, go for fire-roasted tomatoes!
Beans: While kidney beans are my go-to, you can use pinto beans or black beans instead. If you’re looking to cut carbs, feel free to leave them out entirely!
Chili Powder: Chili powder is the star here, but if you don’t have any, you can mix paprika and cumin as an alternative. Adjust the spice level to your taste!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
A key step for great flavor is to properly sauté the onions and garlic before adding the beef. This builds a flavor base that makes a difference!
- Cook onions until they’re soft and translucent—don’t rush this step.
- Toast the spices right after browning the beef to activate their flavor—just a minute or two will do.
- Don’t skip the simmering stage! This is where all the flavors meld together, so extra time is a plus.
Lastly, taste your chili at the end! Adjusting the seasonings can elevate the dish. Add a bit more salt, or a splash of hot sauce for that extra zing!
How to Make Ground Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- Broth: 1 cup beef broth or water
- Spices: 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
- Optional: 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeño peppers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ground beef chili takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 30 to 35 minutes of cooking time, so expect a total of around 45 minutes from start to finish. Great for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out to keep your chili leaner.
3. Season the Chili:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you like a bit of heat, toss in the cayenne pepper too! Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to really toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), the tomato sauce, and the beef broth. Stir everything together so it’s combined well.
5. Simmer and Stir:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then. If you’re using beans, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm through.
6. Final Touches and Serving:
Once the chili has thickened up and the flavors have melded together, taste it! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed. Serve your delicious chili hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced jalapeños on top.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful ground beef chili—it’s perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned, similar to the beef.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using a mix of beans like black beans, pinto beans, and lentils as the protein source. You might also want to add some extra veggies for added texture and flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chili?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it down completely before freezing. To reheat, warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen it up.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! You can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper. If you prefer milder chili, simply reduce or omit the cayenne. For a spicier kick, you can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking!
