Classic Ground Beef Chili Recipe

One chilly evening, I wanted to make something warm and comforting for dinner that the whole family would love. I had ground beef in the fridge and a pantry full of canned beans and tomatoes, so I decided to whip up a pot of classic chili. The aroma of simmering spices filled the kitchen, and by the time it was done, everyone was excited to dig in.

This classic ground beef chili recipe is now a staple in my home. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can make it as spicy or mild as you like.

Servings	Total
6	55mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned how to make chili from my mom. She kept it simple with a few basic ingredients, and over the years, I’ve added my own twists to the recipe. It’s one of those dishes that gets better every time you make it, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why Ground Beef Chili

Ground beef chili is a classic comfort food. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and loaded with rich, smoky flavors from the spices. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a main dish, use it as a topping for baked potatoes, or even turn it into chili dogs. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week.

What Is Ground Beef Chili Made Of?

This chili is made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Onion and garlic
• Canned tomatoes (diced and crushed)
• Canned beans (kidney, black, or pinto)
• Tomato paste
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat

What to Have with Ground Beef Chili

Here are some delicious sides and toppings to pair with your chili:

• Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread is a classic pairing.
• Rice: Serve chili over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal.
• Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, or sliced jalapeños.
• Tortilla chips: Great for dipping or crumbling on top.
• Salad: A simple green salad adds freshness to balance the rich chili.

Is Ground Beef Chili Healthy?

Ground beef chili can be a healthy choice, especially if you use lean ground beef and load it with beans and vegetables. The spices add flavor without extra calories, and it’s high in protein and fiber. For an even lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, diced, or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
   • Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot with the beef.
   • Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Spices:
   • Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
4. Add Tomatoes and Beans:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
   • Add the kidney beans and black beans. Mix well to combine.
5. Simmer the Chili:
   • Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

Tips

• For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of cocoa powder.
• Make it spicier by adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Let the chili simmer longer for even richer flavor—up to an hour if you have time.

FAQs

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

2. Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the ground beef and add more beans or use a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Conclusion

This classic ground beef chili recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with hearty ingredients, and versatile enough to customize to your taste. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prep, or a game-day gathering, this chili is sure to be a hit. Give it a try—you’ll love how satisfying and simple it is!

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