Hearty beef chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a chilly evening or feeding a crowd at a gathering, this recipe is your go-to for a bowl of satisfying goodness. Packed with tender beef, beans, and an array of spices, this hearty chili is sure to warm your heart and your stomach.
Why You’ll Love This hearty beef chili recipe
- Customizable: Perfect for adding your favorite toppings or tweaking spices to suit your taste.
- One-Pot Wonder: Simplifies cooking and cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing.
Ingredients of the hearty beef chili recipe
For the Chili Base:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 15-oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 15-oz can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 15-oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth or water
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
Optional Toppings for the hearty beef chili recipe
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Green onions, chopped
- Jalapeños, sliced
- Tortilla chips or cornbread
Tools You’ll Need to make the hearty beef chili recipe
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for the hearty beef chili recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Rinse and drain the beans to remove excess sodium.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add a drizzle of oil (if necessary) and sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
Step 4: Build the Flavor
- Return the cooked beef to the pot.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Step 5: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Add the kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth.
Step 6: Simmer the Chili
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust seasoning with salt or additional spices as needed.
How to Serve the hearty beef chili recipe
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
- Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best hearty beef chili recipe
- Use Quality Beef: 80% lean ground beef strikes a balance between flavor and texture.
- Layer Flavors: Toasting the spices before adding liquids enhances depth.
- Simmer Slowly: Longer cooking times allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the cayenne or add fresh jalapeños for extra spice.
- Enhance the Flavor: A splash of lime juice or a touch of dark chocolate can elevate the taste.
Variations of the hearty beef chili recipe
1. Spicy Kick
- Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or diced fresh chilies for heat.
2. Veggie-Packed Chili
- Include zucchini, corn, or carrots for added texture and nutrients.
3. Turkey or Chicken Chili
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
4. No-Bean Chili
- Omit the beans and add extra beef or veggies for a keto-friendly version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~310
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
Storage and Reheating of the hearty beef chili recipe
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions about the hearty beef chili recipe
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How Do I Thicken Chili?
If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Can I Make It Spicier?
Add more cayenne, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh jalapeños. Adjust gradually to your heat preference.
What Goes Well with Chili?
Cornbread, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad make great accompaniments.
Conclusion about the hearty beef chili recipe
This hearty beef chili recipe is a classic that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese, this chili is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.
Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a steaming bowl of chili today!
