A hearty, comforting bowl of old-fashioned chili is a classic dish that never goes out of style. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients and bursting with rich flavors, this recipe is perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or game-day feasts. Here’s how to make the best old-fashioned chili step-by-step, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas.
1. Best Old Fashioned Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2-3 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth or water
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon or spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Simmer the Chili
Add the beef broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, chopped cilantro, etc.
2. Tips For Perfect Chili
Brown the Meat Properly: Browning the ground beef adds depth to the flavor. Take the time to cook it until nicely browned before adding other ingredients.
Use Fresh Vegetables: Freshly diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers give the chili a flavorful base. Avoid skipping these aromatics, as they create the foundation of the dish.
Layer the Spices: Adding spices early in the cooking process helps them bloom, releasing their full flavor into the chili. Adjust the spice level based on your preference for heat.
Simmer for Flavor: Chili tastes better the longer it simmers. Allowing it to cook slowly gives the ingredients time to meld, creating a rich and hearty dish.
Don’t Skip the Beans: Beans add texture and heartiness to the chili. Rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess salt and improve their flavor.
Adjust the Thickness: If the chili is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. For a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
3. What To Serve With Chili
Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some of the best options to serve with chili and why they work so well
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic companion to chili. Its slightly sweet, crumbly texture balances the spice and richness of the chili, while its ability to soak up the flavorful sauce makes it even more satisfying.
Rice
Serving chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice helps mellow out the heat while making the meal more filling. Rice also provides a neutral base that complements the bold flavors of the chili.
Baked Potatoes
A baked potato topped with chili turns into a hearty, all-in-one meal. The soft, starchy potato pairs perfectly with the rich and meaty chili, while toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions add extra flavor.
Tortilla Chips
Crunchy tortilla chips are ideal for scooping up chili, turning it into a fun and shareable dish. The salty, crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the thick, saucy chili.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw provides a cool, crunchy contrast to the warmth and spice of chili. Its creamy, tangy dressing balances the richness of the dish, creating a refreshing bite.
4. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
Allow the chili to cool completely before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Stovetop: Place the chili in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Microwave: Heat individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 1-2 minutes to ensure even heating.
From Frozen: Thaw the chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Old-fashioned chili is a classic recipe that’s easy to customize and perfect for feeding a crowd. With a few simple ingredients, the right cooking techniques, and creative variations, you can craft a chili that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether served with cornbread, topped with cheese, or paired with a baked potato, this dish is sure to satisfy every craving.
