If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, the Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe is just the dish to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. This classic chili combines tender ground beef, vibrant spices, rich tomato, and creamy beans to create a perfect bowl of goodness that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers every time with that perfect balance of smoky, savory, and spicy notes that will make it your favorite chili recipe ever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect chili, and this Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe keeps it straightforward yet incredibly flavorful. Each element plays an essential role, from the fragrant spices that create depth to the hearty beans that add texture and richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic to release their sweet, aromatic flavors.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and texture that’s foundational to chili.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts aroma and sharpens the flavor profile beautifully.
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred): Provides the rich, meaty base that forms the heart of the chili.
- 3 tablespoons chili powder: The signature spice that gives chili its characteristic warmth and color.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the chili powder perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smoky sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a gentle herbaceous hint important for flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and elevates all other ingredients’ natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili for a hearty texture.
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juicy acidity and vibrant fresh tomato flavors.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: Fills the chili with savory richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Bring creamy texture and extra protein for satisfying bites.
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro for adding brightness, creaminess, and a bit of heat.
How to Make Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it softens and turns a lovely golden hue. Then add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute until it fills your kitchen with that irresistible garlicky aroma. This base layer of sautéed aromatics builds flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef and break it apart with your spoon as it browns evenly over 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll want to get a nice sear on the meat because those browned bits add incredible depth. If there’s excess fat pooling, drain it off to keep your chili balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and let these spices toast for a full minute. This step unlocks their fragrance and deepens their flavor so they really shine in the finished dish. Trust me, skipping this shortcut loses that signature chili warmth.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Base
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook briefly, infusing the beef mixture with rich tomato savoriness. Then pour in the diced tomatoes with all their juice. Let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes together. This melds the flavors while starting to thicken your chili sauce.
Step 5: Add Broth and Beans
Pour in the beef broth and add drained kidney beans. Give it a good stir to combine the ingredients evenly. Bring the whole pot to a gentle boil, which prepares your chili for that slow simmer which will concentrate all those rich flavors.
Step 6: Simmer and Develop
Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking and keep the texture smooth. This slow simmer is where your chili thickens beautifully and the flavors deepen into something truly unforgettable.
Step 7: Final Touches
Before serving, taste your masterpiece and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy. These small tweaks personalize the chili exactly to your liking. Now your Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about chili is customizing each bowl to your own tastes. Top your chili with shredded cheddar cheese that melts perfectly into the hot chili. Add chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream smooths any heat and adds creaminess. For those who love spice, scatter some sliced jalapeños on top to kick it up a notch.
Side Dishes
Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe pairs like a dream with several side dishes. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a complete filling meal. Crusty warm bread or cornbread is wonderful for soaking up every last drop of chili sauce. Baked potatoes make hearty vessels to pile chili on top for a comforting, satisfying feast. The possibilities are plenty, so try whatever you love most!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress family or guests, try serving the chili in bread bowls for a rustic, cozy dinner. Spoon it over tortilla chips and add melted cheese and jalapeños for an irresistible chili nachos platter. You can even use the chili as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a topping on baked potatoes. The Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe is versatile and endlessly adaptable for creative home dining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best joys of chili is how well it holds up as leftovers. Once cooled, transfer any leftover Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe into airtight containers and let it chill in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your chili longer, it freezes wonderfully. Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, label them with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then heat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chili slowly in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickened too much in the fridge or freezer. For a quicker option, use the microwave, stirring every minute or so to heat evenly. Either way, it will taste just as comforting and delicious as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! While the Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe is traditionally made with beef for that rich flavor, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor will be milder, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning to boost it up.
How spicy is this chili?
This chili has a moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and black pepper, but it’s very customizable. If you prefer more heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce, and for a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit jalapeño toppings.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
You sure can! After browning the beef and sautéing your aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. It’s a great hands-off method with wonderful results.
What beans work best in this recipe?
Kidney beans are classic and preferred for their firm texture and ability to hold up during cooking, but you can also use pinto beans or black beans if you like. Just make sure to rinse canned beans well before adding to reduce excess sodium and improve flavor.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes! This Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe is naturally gluten-free provided you use gluten-free beef broth and check that your spices and canned goods are free from gluten-containing additives. It’s a comforting meal that many with dietary restrictions can enjoy safely.
Final Thoughts
Making the Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe is like inviting a warm hug to your dinner table. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and comforting warmth come together effortlessly to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a weekend favorite, this chili is destined to become one of your go-to recipes. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that celebrates the best of home cooking.
Print
Ultimate Beef Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Beef Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of bold spices. Slow-simmered to perfection, it’s perfect for a comforting meal and can be customized with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream
- Jalapeños
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and golden brown.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the chili from being greasy.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture and allow the spices to toast for about 1 minute to enhance their flavors.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste and Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly, then add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the beef broth and add the drained kidney beans. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Simmer Chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage thickening.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a dash of hot sauce if you prefer extra heat.
- Serve: Serve the chili hot topped with your choice of optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. Pair with sides such as rice, bread, or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Drain excess fat after browning beef to prevent a greasy chili.
- Simmering uncovered helps thicken the chili and concentrate flavors.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or hot sauce according to taste.
- Kidney beans can be substituted with black beans or pinto beans if preferred.
- For a thicker chili, simmer longer or add a small amount of masa harina or cornmeal.
- Leftovers taste even better after a day as flavors continue to meld.
