If you’re dreaming of a bowl of pure comfort, bursting with rich flavors and just the right kick, then look no further than this Best Beef Chili Recipe. Savory ground beef, tender beans, and colorful peppers simmer together in an aromatic, spice-packed sauce that’s equally perfect for game day, cold nights, or any time you crave cozy goodness. Whether you serve it with classic toppings, enjoy it fresh or plan for leftovers (trust me, it’s even better the next day), this chili quickly becomes a household legend—one you’ll be proud to call your signature!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to the Best Beef Chili Recipe is how simple and accessible the ingredients are, yet each plays an essential part in creating those deep, satisfying flavors. Every addition brings something special—texture, color, or richness—so don’t skip a thing!
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness that helps both the aromatics and beef brown beautifully.
- Chopped onion: Gives a sweet, savory backbone that builds the chili’s base flavor.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the pot with bold, irresistible aroma and warmth.
- Ground beef: The star of the show, providing hearty texture and that classic chili depth.
- Red bell pepper: Offers a pop of sweetness and vibrant color in every spoonful.
- Green bell pepper: Adds subtle bitterness and crunch for a balanced bite.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates flavor and delivers a touch of umami.
- Crushed tomatoes: Give body to the chili and intensify the tomato flavor.
- Diced tomatoes: Add juicy tomato chunks for extra texture.
- Kidney beans: Classic chili staple—hearty, creamy, and perfect for soaking up flavor.
- Black beans: Earthy and soft, they pair wonderfully with the kidney beans.
- Chili powder: The essence of chili—adds spice, color, and signature warmth.
- Ground cumin: Lends earthy depth and a slight smokiness.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoke that elevates the sauce.
- Oregano: Balances the heat with bright herbal notes.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out all those robust flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the spices.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For anyone who loves that extra tingle of heat!
- Beef broth or water: Helps the flavors meld and gives the chili its perfect consistency.
How to Make Best Beef Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and let it cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for another minute, just until the aroma fills your kitchen—this sets a delicious foundation for the Best Beef Chili Recipe.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to your pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly, which should take about 7–8 minutes. If your beef releases a lot of fat, you can drain off some of the excess for a slightly lighter chili, but keep enough for flavor!
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Tomato Paste
Next, stir in your chopped red and green bell peppers along with the rich tomato paste. Let this cook for 2–3 minutes so the peppers soften a bit and the paste toasts slightly, layering even more savory depth into your chili.
Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Pour in your crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Add the beef broth or water, then stir in all the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you want some heat. Give everything a thorough stir—already the pot looks and smells amazing!
Step 5: Simmer and Finish
Bring the contents to a bubbly simmer, then reduce the heat and let your Best Beef Chili Recipe cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. As the chili simmers, the flavors meld, and the sauce thickens to a hearty stew. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving—you’re in control of the final punch!
How to Serve Best Beef Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The right finishing touches make this chili truly special. I love to pile on a dollop of sour cream, a shower of shredded cheddar, and a handful of fresh chopped green onions. For a burst of color and crunch, try a sprinkle of diced red onion, jalapeño slices, or chopped cilantro.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or crunchy tortilla chips. If you’re entertaining, a simple green salad or even baked potatoes on the side let the chili shine while rounding out the meal for everyone at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Best Beef Chili Recipe in bread bowls, over baked sweet potatoes, or even as nacho topping! Leftovers are fantastic spooned over fries, mixed with macaroni for a chili mac, or ladled onto hot dogs for a game-day feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili keeps like a dream! Let leftovers cool, then transfer to airtight containers. In the fridge, your Best Beef Chili Recipe will stay delicious and safe for up to 4 days—and the flavors only get deeper and more irresistible as they meld.
Freezing
Chili is a freezer hero. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Frozen, it’s good for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it (future you will be so grateful) and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your leftover chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until simmering and piping hot. For single servings, the microwave works great as well—give it a good stir and stop to check for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for the ground beef if you’d like a twist or need to accommodate dietary preferences. The Best Beef Chili Recipe is flexible, and the results are always satisfying.
Is the chili spicy?
This version has a gentle warmth thanks to chili powder and black pepper, with cayenne pepper as an optional ingredient. Add more cayenne or toss in some chopped jalapeños for extra heat, or leave it out for a milder bowl—your chili, your rules!
Can I make Best Beef Chili Recipe in advance?
Absolutely, in fact, letting the chili chill overnight in the fridge actually intensifies the flavors. Whether you make it the morning of your gathering or a full day ahead, you’ll be rewarded with an even more delicious pot the next day.
What are your favorite toppings for chili?
Classic shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions always hit the spot. I also enjoy diced avocado, a splash of hot sauce, chopped cilantro, or broken tortilla chips for crunch—there are so many ways to personalize your Best Beef Chili Recipe!
How can I make this chili gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be sure to double-check all your canned goods, spices, and broths to avoid any hidden sources of gluten. Serve it with gluten-free sides or garnishes and enjoy worry-free.
Final Thoughts
I can’t tell you enough how happy it makes me to share this Best Beef Chili Recipe with you—the kind of hearty, soul-warming meal that brings people together and always gets rave reviews. If you try it, I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home, too. Don’t forget to pile on those toppings and share your own creative twists!
Print
Best Beef Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Best Beef Chili Recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Cook onion and garlic: Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef: Cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Combine ingredients: Add bell peppers, tomato paste, tomatoes, beans, broth, and spices. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until thickened.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
- Chili can be made ahead and tastes better the next day.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Add corn, jalapeños, or lime juice for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
