Chilis & Stews

Classic Beef Chili

Name: Classic Beef Chili
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (16 oz) beef broth; 1 tbsp brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

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

Prep30 min

Cook60 min

Total90 min

Serves6

There's nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of chili to bring the family together on a chilly evening. My Classic Beef Chili recipe is a staple in our household, and I'm excited to share it with you. It's a simple, yet flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

I remember my grandmother making a big pot of chili for our family gatherings when I was a kid. The aroma of simmering ground beef, onions, and spices would fill the entire house, and we couldn't wait to dig in. Over the years, I've tweaked her recipe to make it my own, and now I'm happy to share it with you.

This recipe is great for anyone who loves a hearty, comforting meal that's easy to make and packed with flavor. The best part is that it's incredibly versatile - you can serve it with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions, or use it as a filling for tacos or baked potatoes.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. It's easy to follow, and the steps are straightforward. So, grab a pot, and let's get started!

In this recipe, we'll be using ground beef, beans, and tomatoes to create a rich, flavorful broth. We'll also be adding some aromatics, such as onions and garlic, to give the dish a depth of flavor. And, of course, no chili would be complete without a blend of spices to add some heat and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's a great way to feed a large crowd, and the leftovers are perfect for lunch or dinner the next day
The dish is highly customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings or spices to make it your own
It's a budget-friendly option that won't break the bank
The recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion
It's a hearty, comforting meal that's sure to become a family favorite

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great chili is to cook the ground beef until it's nicely browned, which adds a rich, depth of flavor to the dish. We'll also be using a combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika to give the chili a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of acidity, which helps to balance out the richness of the beef and beans. We'll be using a can of diced tomatoes, which adds a burst of juicy flavor and a touch of acidity to the dish.

Finally, we'll be letting the chili simmer for at least an hour, which allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender. This step is crucial, as it helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat and creates a rich, velvety texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Classic Beef Chili, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including ground beef, beans, and tomatoes. Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, such as fresh onions and garlic, and a good-quality chili powder.

When shopping for the ingredients, look for sales on ground beef and canned goods, and consider buying in bulk to save money. You can also customize the recipe to suit your tastes by adding your favorite spices or toppings.

1 lb (450g) ground beefChoose a high-quality ground beef with a good balance of fat and lean meat for the best flavor and texture. You can also use ground turkey or pork if you prefer.
1 large onion, dicedUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use a combination of onion and shallots for added depth of flavor.
3 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for the best flavor, so be sure to mince it just before using. You can also use roasted garlic for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
1 red bell pepper, dicedAny color bell pepper will work, but red adds a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the dish. You can also use a combination of bell peppers for added color and flavor.
2 tbsp chili powderChoose a high-quality chili powder that's fresh and aromatic for the best flavor. You can also use a combination of chili powder and ground cumin for added depth of flavor.
1 tsp ground cuminCumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish, so be sure to use it generously. You can also use smoked paprika for a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
1 tsp dried oreganoOregano adds a pungent, earthy flavor to the dish, so use it sparingly. You can also use fresh oregano for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
1/2 tsp cayenne pepperCayenne pepper adds a spicy kick to the dish, so use it to taste. You can also use diced jalapenos or serrano peppers for added heat.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoesChoose a high-quality canned tomato that's low in sodium and added sugars for the best flavor. You can also use fresh tomatoes, but be sure to cook them down to create a rich, intense flavor.
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsedRed kidney beans add a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the dish, but you can also use black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of beans for added variety.
1 can (16 oz) beef brothBeef broth adds a rich, meaty flavor to the dish, but you can also use chicken broth or a combination of broths for added depth of flavor.
1 tbsp brown sugarBrown sugar adds a sweet, caramel-like flavor to the dish, but you can also use honey or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor.
Salt and pepper to tasteBe sure to season the dish generously with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaColander or strainer

How to Make Classic Beef Chili

1
Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it's translucent and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
2
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
3
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Add the diced red bell pepper to the pot and cook until it's tender, about 3-5 minutes.
5
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
6
Add the can of diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
7
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the beef is tender.
8
Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
9
To add some extra flavor to the dish, try adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving.
10
For a thicker chili, try simmering it for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the desired consistency is reached.
11
To make the dish more substantial, try serving it over rice, with some crusty bread, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
12
To add some heat to the dish, try adding some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
13
To make the dish more flavorful, try using a combination of ground meats, such as beef, pork, and turkey, for added depth of flavor.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh onions and garlic, for the best flavor.
Brown the ground beef until it's nicely browned, as this adds a rich, depth of flavor to the dish.
Use a combination of chili powder and cumin for added depth of flavor.
Add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving to add some brightness to the dish.
Simmer the chili for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste, as this will bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Try serving the chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions, to add some extra flavor and texture.
Consider making a double batch of the chili and freezing it for later use, as it will keep for several months in the freezer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not browning the ground beef until it's nicely browned, which adds a rich, depth of flavor to the dish.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh onions and garlic, which can result in a less flavorful dish.
Not simmering the chili for at least 1 hour, which allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
Not seasoning the chili with salt and pepper to taste, which can result in a dish that's lacking in flavor.
Not using a combination of chili powder and cumin, which adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Not adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving, which can add some brightness to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using ground turkey or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pot for an extra kick of heat.
Use a combination of beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, and red kidney beans, for added variety.
Add some diced bell peppers or zucchini to the pot for added flavor and nutrients.
Try using a different type of tomato, such as crushed or diced, for a different texture.
Add some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions to the pot for added flavor and freshness.
Try serving the chili over rice, with some crusty bread, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

What to Serve With Classic Beef Chili

This Classic Beef Chili is perfect for serving on its own, or with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions. You can also serve it with some crusty bread, over rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Some other ideas for serving the chili include using it as a filling for tacos or baked potatoes, or serving it with some crispy tortilla chips or crackers. You can also try serving it with a side of cornbread or a green salad for a more well-rounded meal.

Shredded cheeseSour creamDiced onionsChopped fresh cilantro or scallionsCrispy tortilla chips or crackersCornbread or crusty bread

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Classic Beef Chili can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-5 days, or frozen for up to 3-4 months. To freeze, simply cool the chili to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

To reheat, simply thaw the chili overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot and steaming. You can also try reheating it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a more hands-off approach.

When reheating the chili, be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent scorching, and add a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick. You can also try adding some fresh herbs or spices to the pot to give it a boost of flavor.

In addition to freezing, you can also try canning the chili using a pressure canner or water bath canner. This will allow you to store the chili in a cool, dark place for up to 5-10 years, and is a great way to preserve the flavors and textures of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?

A high-quality ground beef with a good balance of fat and lean meat is best for this recipe. Look for a ground beef that's around 80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat.

Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or pork instead of beef. Simply brown the meat as you would the beef, then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

How long can I store the chili in the fridge?

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

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 freeze. The chili will keep for up to 3-4 months in the freezer.

How do I reheat the chili?

To reheat the chili, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot and steaming. You can also try reheating it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a more hands-off approach.

What are some good toppings for the chili?

Some good toppings for the chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and chopped fresh cilantro or scallions. You can also try adding some crispy tortilla chips or crackers for added crunch.

Can I make the chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the chili in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and cook the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I prevent the chili from becoming too thick?

To prevent the chili from becoming too thick, simply add a splash of water or broth as needed. You can also try adding some diced tomatoes or beans to the pot to add some extra moisture and flavor.

The Full Recipe

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