Save A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, beans, and warming spices—perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal. Ready in under an hour!
This chili quickly became a go-to dinner during busy weekdays. Its rich flavors and easy prep make it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can
- Kidney beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Tomato paste: 1 (6 oz / 170 g) can
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium (or vegetable broth)
- Chili powder: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp optional for heat
- Salt: 1 tsp or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2:
- Add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 3:
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.
- Step 4:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 5:
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
Save This chili brings our family together on chilly nights with bowls full of warmth and comfort.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, chef’s knife, wooden spoon or spatula, can opener
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens if prepared as listed. Toppings such as cheese and sour cream contain dairy. Double-check canned goods for cross-contamination if gluten-sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories 410, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 32 g per serving
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This simple weeknight chili is the perfect balance of hearty and easy. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the ground beef and increase the beans or add chopped mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian option.
- → What toppings work best with this chili?
Shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños are popular choices to enhance flavor and texture.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Modify the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
Cornbread or steamed rice pair excellently, offering a hearty balance alongside the rich chili.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, leftovers develop deeper flavors when refrigerated overnight and re-heated gently before serving.