Chilis & Stews

Beef and Bean Chili

Name: Beef and Bean Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz/425g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup water

By Sam Carter · June 18, 2026 · Chilis & Stews

Prep20 min

Cook40 min

Total60 min

Serves6

There's nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of beef and bean chili to brighten up a chilly weeknight evening. I've been perfecting my recipe for years, and it's become a staple in our household. The key to a great chili is in the layers of flavor, and I'm excited to share my secrets with you.

I remember my first attempt at making chili like it was yesterday. I was a college student, and I threw a can of diced tomatoes, some ground beef, and a few spices into a pot, hoping for the best. The result was...less than stellar. But I didn't give up. I kept experimenting, tweaking, and testing until I landed on a recipe that truly wowed my family and friends.

What makes this recipe special is the combination of tender beans, rich ground beef, and a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. It's a chili that's both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills.

Whether you're a chili aficionado or just looking for a delicious, budget-friendly meal, this recipe is for you. So grab a spoon, dig in, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food.

In this recipe, we'll cover everything from browning the beef to adding the perfect blend of spices. We'll talk about the importance of using high-quality ingredients, like fresh onions and garlic, and how to cook the chili to perfection. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a truly amazing beef and bean chili that will become a staple in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's a budget-friendly option that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.
The chili is loaded with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and filling meal.
It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
The recipe is highly customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own.
It's a great make-ahead option that can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.
The chili is incredibly flavorful and delicious, with a depth of flavor that's hard to resist.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a great chili lies in the layers of flavor. By browning the beef properly, we create a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth and complexity to the dish. Then, by cooking the onions and garlic until they're soft and fragrant, we add a sweetness and aroma that balances out the savory flavors of the beef and beans.

Another key element is the use of a variety of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and paprika. These spices add a bold, smoky flavor that complements the beef and beans perfectly. And by using a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste, we create a thick, velvety sauce that coats the beans and beef beautifully.

Finally, the use of kidney beans and black beans adds a nice texture and flavor contrast to the dish. The kidney beans are soft and creamy, while the black beans are slightly firmer and more robust. Together, they create a delicious, filling chili that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

By understanding the science behind the cooking process, we can create a truly exceptional dish that's greater than the sum of its parts. In this case, the combination of browned beef, cooked onions and garlic, spices, and beans creates a flavor profile that's both complex and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great beef and bean chili, the ingredients are just as important as the cooking technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, beans, and spices to create a rich, flavorful sauce. We'll also be using some common pantry staples, like diced tomatoes and tomato paste, to add depth and complexity to the dish.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality options that will add flavor and texture to the dish. For example, look for fresh onions and garlic, and choose canned beans that are low in sodium and added sugars. You can also customize the recipe to suit your tastes by adding your favorite spices or ingredients.

1 lb (450g) ground beefChoose a high-quality ground beef that's at least 80% lean. You can also use ground turkey or ground pork if you prefer.
1 large onion, dicedLook for a fresh onion that's firm and has no signs of mold or sprouts. You can also use a sweet onion, like a Vidalia or a Maui onion, for added flavor.
3 cloves garlic, mincedChoose fresh garlic that's firm and has no signs of mold or sprouts. You can also use jarred garlic or garlic powder if you prefer.
1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoesLook for a can of diced tomatoes that's low in sodium and added sugars. You can also use fresh tomatoes, like Roma or cherry tomatoes, if you prefer.
1 can (15 oz/425g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsedChoose a can of kidney beans that's low in sodium and added sugars. You can also use cooked kidney beans if you prefer.
1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsedChoose a can of black beans that's low in sodium and added sugars. You can also use cooked black beans if you prefer.
2 tbsp chili powderLook for a high-quality chili powder that's made with a blend of spices, like cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs.
1 tsp ground cuminChoose a high-quality cumin that's fresh and aromatic. You can also use ground coriander or caraway seeds if you prefer.
1 tsp smoked paprikaLook for a high-quality smoked paprika that's made from smoked peppers. You can also use sweet paprika or regular paprika if you prefer.
1/2 tsp cayenne pepperChoose a high-quality cayenne pepper that's fresh and aromatic. You can also use red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteUse high-quality salt and pepper to add flavor and depth to the dish. You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or spices.
2 tbsp olive oilChoose a high-quality olive oil that's fresh and aromatic. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.
1/4 cup waterUse fresh water to add moisture and flavor to the dish. You can also use broth or stock if you prefer.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or silicone spatulaCan opener

How to Make Beef and Bean Chili

1
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2
Add the diced onion and cook until it's soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the ground beef and cook until it's browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5
Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
6
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
7
Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
8
Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes, until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
9
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
10
Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
11
Optional: serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients to add flavor and depth to the dish.
Don't overcook the chili, as it can become dry and tough.
Customize the recipe to suit your tastes by adding your favorite spices or ingredients.
Use a variety of beans, like kidney beans and black beans, to add texture and flavor contrast to the dish.
Add a splash of acidity, like lime juice or vinegar, to balance out the flavors.
Experiment with different types of protein, like ground turkey or ground pork, for added variety.
Make the chili ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
Serve the chili with a variety of toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips, to add flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not browning the beef properly, which can result in a lack of flavor and texture.
Not cooking the onions and garlic until they're soft and fragrant, which can result in a harsh or bitter flavor.
Not using enough liquid, which can result in a dry and tough chili.
Not seasoning the chili properly, which can result in a bland or unbalanced flavor.
Overcooking the chili, which can result in a dry and tough texture.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a lack of flavor and depth in the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the chili for added flavor and texture.
Use ground turkey or ground pork instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of acidity, like lime juice or vinegar, to balance out the flavors.
Use a variety of beans, like kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans, to add texture and flavor contrast to the dish.
Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to give the chili a smoky flavor.
Serve the chili with a variety of toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips, to add flavor and texture.
Make the chili in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a hands-off and convenient cooking method.

What to Serve With Beef and Bean Chili

Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired. You can also serve it with a variety of toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips, to add flavor and texture.

Some other ideas for serving the chili include:

Serving it with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a filling and satisfying meal.

Adding it to a bed of rice or roasted vegetables for a nutritious and well-rounded meal.

Using it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a fun and creative snack.

Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.Serve with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a filling and satisfying meal.Add to a bed of rice or roasted vegetables for a nutritious and well-rounded meal.Use as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a fun and creative snack.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The chili can be refrigerated for up to 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3-4 months. To refrigerate, cool the chili to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

To freeze, cool the chili to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, simply thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat until it's hot and bubbly.

Reheating the chili is easy - simply heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become dry and tough.

Some other tips for storing and reheating the chili include:

Using a thermometer to ensure the chili is heated to a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Stirring the chili occasionally as it reheats to prevent scorching or sticking.

Adding a splash of water or broth to the chili if it becomes too thick or dry during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of ground beef you prefer, but a leaner ground beef (at least 80% lean) will work best. You can also use ground turkey or ground pork if you prefer.

Can I use canned beans instead of cooked beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans instead of cooked beans. Simply drain and rinse the canned beans and add them to the chili.

How long can I store the chili in the refrigerator?

The chili can be refrigerated for up to 3-5 days. Simply cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze the chili?

Yes, you can freeze the chili. Simply cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

How do I reheat the chili?

To reheat the chili, simply heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become dry and tough.

Can I customize the recipe to suit my tastes?

Yes, you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Simply add your favorite spices or ingredients to the chili and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Is the chili spicy?

The chili has a moderate level of heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper and chili powder. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce to taste.

Can I make the chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the chili in a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

The Full Recipe

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