There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili on a chilly evening, right? This classic chili recipe is my go-to for cozy gatherings and nights in. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with all the good stuff! I remember the first time I made chili for my friends; the smell wafting through my kitchen drew everyone in, and the laughter around the table was priceless. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. Let’s dive into how to make this comfort food classic!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious chili recipe. I promise, the ingredients are simple, but together, they create something truly special!
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to making a bowl of chili that’ll warm your heart and fill your belly! Don’t forget: fresh ingredients make a world of difference!
How to Prepare the Chili Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! Making this chili recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of goodness simmering in no time!
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it sizzle away! You’ll want to cook it for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it! You’re looking for a nice brown color.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them in and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The aroma will be amazing, trust me! This is where the magic starts to happen.
Step 3: Add Spices
Now for the fun part—adding the spices! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. This is what gives our chili that rich flavor, so take a moment to appreciate those spices as they blend together.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything together, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This should take about 5 minutes. The colors and smells will be so inviting, you might just want to dive right in!
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Just occasionally give it a stir to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Step 6: Add the Beans
Finally, it’s time to add the kidney beans! Stir them in and let the chili simmer for an additional 15 minutes. This will heat them through without losing their lovely texture. And there you have it—your chili is ready to be served! I can’t wait for you to enjoy it!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Each serving of this hearty chili is packed with goodness, making it not only delicious but also satisfying. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But one thing’s for sure—this chili is a hearty meal that won’t weigh you down! Enjoy it knowing you’re treating yourself to something nutritious and satisfying.
Tips for Success
Ready to take your chili to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t shy away from adjusting the spices—taste as you go! If you like it spicy, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. And for a twist, try adding a can of corn or some chopped bell peppers for extra color and sweetness. If you have leftovers, they store beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove for the best texture. Serve your chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common ones I hear about this chili recipe:
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will still give you a hearty chili.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for lentils or more beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. It’s just as delicious!
Can I freeze the chili?
Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully! Just store it in an airtight container, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months.
What toppings do you recommend?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Try shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or diced avocado for a tasty finish.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights or gatherings.
- Rich, robust flavor that gets better the longer it simmers.
- Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly.
- Great for meal prep—leftovers are just as tasty!
- Versatile: customize with your favorite beans, spices, or toppings.
- Easy to make in large batches, so you can feed a crowd!
- Low-fat option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Always a crowd-pleaser that brings people together around the table.
Trust me, once you experience this chili, it’ll become your favorite recipe too!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! This chili stores beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, feel free to freeze it! Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers, and it should last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
To reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best texture. Just warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it looks a bit thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy every last bite!
Print
Chili Recipe: 7 Reasons It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A classic chili recipe that is hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the kidney beans and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Can be served with cornbread or rice.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chili recipe, beef chili, hearty chili
