This hearty classic homemade chili is a timeless comfort food that’s both filling and full of flavor. Packed with ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers simmered in a rich and slightly spicy sauce, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of heat and depth. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, game night, or meal prep, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that gets even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Chili
Chili is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich, hearty, and easy to make in a single pot. This version combines tender ground beef with colorful vegetables, beans for protein and texture, and a thick tomato base infused with aromatic spices. It’s satisfying on its own or served with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips.
Even better, this chili freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and save portions for future quick meals.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900 g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (14.5 oz / 410 g each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat for a leaner chili. - Sauté the vegetables
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. - Add the seasonings
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices toast in the pot for about 1 minute to deepen the flavor. - Build the chili base
Stir in the tomato paste, then add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. - Add the beans
Stir in the drained kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. - Simmer for flavor
Cover partially with a lid and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the thicker and more flavorful it becomes. If the chili becomes too thick, add a little extra broth or water. - Taste and adjust
Once the chili has thickened, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed—more salt for depth, more chili powder for spice, or a dash of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
Tips for the Best Chili
- Let it rest: Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld overnight. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle peppers for a bolder heat.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or extra beans.
- Rich flavor boost: A teaspoon of cocoa powder or a splash of coffee can deepen the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this homemade chili piping hot with your favorite sides. Classic pairings include cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra texture and taste.
It’s also great for chili dogs, nachos, or as a filling for burritos and baked potatoes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. To freeze, cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the texture.
Conclusion
This classic homemade chili combines hearty beef, tender beans, and bold spices for a deeply satisfying meal that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, filling, and simple to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. Whether enjoyed fresh from the pot or reheated the next day, this chili is guaranteed to bring warmth and flavor to every bowl.