Soups & Stews > Chilis > Beef Chili > Classic Beef Chili Recipe

Classic Beef Chili

This hearty and flavorful Classic Beef Chili recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it's a satisfying and comforting meal that's easy to prepare.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Ground beef
  • 1 large, chopped Onion
  • 1 chopped Green bell pepper
  • 4 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 3 tbsp Chili powder
  • 2 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp (optional) Cayenne pepper
  • 28 oz can, undrained Diced tomatoes
  • 15 oz can Tomato sauce
  • 15 oz can, drained and rinsed Kidney beans
  • 15 oz can, drained and rinsed Pinto beans
  • 1 cup Beef broth
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or cilantro.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 150kcal
Protein: 12g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This chili recipe can be made healthier by using lean ground beef, reducing the amount of salt, and increasing the vegetable content. Adding more beans or vegetables like zucchini or corn can boost the fiber and nutrient content.

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FAQ

  • Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

    Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  • Can I freeze this chili?

    Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • What can I add to make the chili spicier?

    You can add more cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño pepper to increase the heat.