This Ground Beef Chili is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with flavor from spices, tomatoes, and beans, making each bite satisfying!
I love how easy it is to whip up. You just brown the meat, toss in the ingredients, and let it simmer. Plus, it makes enough to share—or to enjoy for lunch tomorrow! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. You could also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter meat. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a mix of beans instead!
Beans: Kidney beans are great for texture, but other varieties like black beans or pinto beans work just as well. If you’re avoiding beans, consider adding corn for sweetness and crunch.
Chili Powder: This spice blend adds heat and depth. If you’re out of chili powder, a mix of paprika, cumin, and a dash of cayenne can substitute. Adjust based on your preferred spice level!
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add flavor and moisture. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop them up! You can also use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes as alternatives.
How Can I Make Sure My Chili Has Great Flavor?
Getting the flavor right in your chili is key! Start by sweating the onions well; this brings out their sweetness. Don’t rush adding spices—let them cook with the meat for a minute to release the flavors.
- Sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft before adding garlic to prevent it from burning.
- **Toast the spices:** After adding spices, cook for a couple of minutes to enhance their flavor. This step is crucial!
- **Simmer longer for depth:** Letting your chili simmer more allows the flavors to meld together. If time permits, go for a longer simmer!
How to Make Ground Beef Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth or water
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ground Beef Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of simmering time. For richer flavors, you can simmer it for up to an hour. It’s a great dish to make ahead of time too, as it keeps well in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
Begin by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Cook it until it softens and becomes lightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This brings out a lovely sweetness!
2. Add Flavorful Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced green bell pepper. Sauté this mixture for another 2 minutes to soften the pepper and let the garlic release its delicious aroma.
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, it’s time to add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, feel free to drain some off—nobody needs extra fat in their chili!
4. Toast Those Spices:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Let this cook for 1-2 minutes—this toasting step really amps up the flavors!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s all mixed nicely.
6. Let it Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. If you’re able to, let it simmer for up to an hour—trust me, it’ll be worth it!
7. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your chili to see if you want to adjust any seasonings. If you like more heat, add a little extra cayenne or spices.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot chili in bowls, making sure to top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy with bread or over rice if you like!
Dig into your delicious, hearty Ground Beef Chili! Happy cooking! 🍲
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly, as it can dry out more quickly than beef. You might want to add a bit more oil or broth to keep it juicy.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mix of beans (like black beans and pinto beans) and add more vegetables, such as corn or zucchini. You can also use lentils for a hearty texture!
Can I Prepare This Chili in Advance?
Yes! You can make the chili a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
What Should I Serve with Chili?
Chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it over rice for a filling meal. Don’t forget to top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor!
