Chili is one of those classic comfort foods that always brings people together. It’s a great choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, game-day parties, and meal prep because it can feed a crowd while requiring very little hands-on effort.
This homemade chili recipe uses ground beef and simple pantry ingredients to create a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to prepare a delicious pot of chili that is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
1. Chili Recipe (Yield: 8 Servings)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2½ tablespoons chili powder, divided, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can)
- 19 ounces canned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup beer
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Continue cooking until no pink remains. Carefully drain excess grease if necessary.
Add the diced onion, jalapeño, and green bell pepper to the pot with the cooked beef. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
Add the minced garlic, 1½ tablespoons of the chili powder, and the cumin. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant and evenly coat the meat and vegetables.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, beer, tomato paste, and brown sugar if using. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once it begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low and allow the chili to simmer uncovered.
Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans. Stir to combine and continue simmering.
Let the chili cook for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For an even deeper flavor and thicker consistency, continue simmering for up to 90 minutes.
As the chili cooks, taste periodically and add the remaining chili powder as desired. Adjust the salt and black pepper according to your preference.
If the chili becomes thicker than desired, add a small amount of additional beef broth. If it seems too thin, continue simmering uncovered until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have blended together, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, crackers, or cornbread if desired.
2. Tips for Perfect Homemade Chili
Brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding the remaining ingredients. Proper browning develops a richer flavor throughout the chili.
Allow the chili to simmer longer whenever possible. Extended cooking time helps the ingredients blend together and creates a thicker texture.
Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while still providing plenty of flavor.
Taste the chili several times during cooking. Small adjustments to seasoning can make a significant difference in the final result.
For a thicker chili, leave the pot uncovered during simmering so excess liquid can evaporate naturally.
If you enjoy extra heat, add additional jalapeños, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop in the refrigerator.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chili ahead of time?
Yes. Chili is an excellent make-ahead meal. Many people find that the flavor improves after resting overnight, making it a great option for meal prep and entertaining.
Can I freeze homemade chili?
Absolutely. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can typically be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated when needed.
What can I serve with chili?
Popular side dishes include cornbread, baked potatoes, tortilla chips, rice, dinner rolls, or a simple green salad. These sides help turn chili into a complete meal.
Can I use different types of beans?
Yes. Black beans, pinto beans, cannellini beans, or a combination of beans can be used to customize the recipe according to your preference.
Why does chili taste better the next day?
As chili rests, the ingredients continue to absorb flavors from the spices, meat, and tomatoes. This additional resting time often results in a more balanced and developed flavor profile.
4. Nutrition Information
The following nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 445 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 790mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Protein | 39g |
| Potassium | 920mg |
This homemade ground beef chili recipe is a dependable meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of occasions. Made in a single pot and packed with hearty ingredients, it’s a recipe that delivers satisfying results every time.
Keep this chili recipe in your collection for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, and meal prep sessions. With its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again throughout the year.
