The Ultimate Classic Beef Chili

Looking for the perfect classic chili recipe? This hearty beef chili is packed with flavor and easy to make! It's like a hug in a bowl. Get the recipe!

May 21, 2025
By Ethan Navarro.

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave that stick-to-your-ribs kind of comfort? honestly, nothing beats a good bowl of chili. this classic chili recipe is my go-to.

It’s got a depth of flavor that'll warm you right up.

Brief Overview

Chili, a tex-mex staple, has been warming hearts for ages. it's easy to make and perfect for a crowd. this recipe takes about 2 hours, give or take.

It makes enough for 6-8 hungry folks.

Main Benefits

This classic chili recipe is packed with protein and fiber. Hello, happy gut! Serve it at your next game day party. It's the best chili because it tastes like home.

The Ultimate Classic Beef Chili Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:02 Hrs

Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced (approx. 2 cups / 300g)
• 2 green bell peppers, diced (approx. 2 cups / 300g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 2 tsp / 8g)
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add diced onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
• Add drained kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavour will develop.
• Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, spices) as needed.
• Ladle into bowls and serve with your favourite toppings.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:450-550

Fat:20-30g

Fiber:10-15g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Tex-Mex

The Secret To Award Winning Classic Chili Recipe?

Seriously though, what even is the best chili ? for me, it's gotta have that slow-simmered flavor. it needs the perfect balance of spice.

And definitely needs to be piled high with toppings. it should feel like a big cozy hug. this recipe delivers all of that.

Build Your Foundation: Homemade Chili Seasoning

Skip the pre-made packets. trust me on this one. making your own homemade chili seasoning is a game changer. it allows you to control the spice level.

Plus, it just tastes fresher and more vibrant. you know, like you actually care.

Salad Prep (Wait, What?) and Chili? Hear Me Out

Okay, bear with me here. salad prep isn’t just for salads. doing all your chopping beforehand makes life so much easier.

Dice your onions, bell peppers, and garlic before you even start cooking. it's like having your own sous chef.

Unleash Your Inner Chef: Beef Chili Recipe

Ready to get cooking? This beef chili recipe uses simple ingredients. Browning the beef first creates a depth of flavor. Don't skip this step! It's key for building that rich chili base.

What Makes This The Best Chili Recipe?

It all boils down to the slow simmer. the longer you let it cook, the better it gets. it allows the flavors to meld together.

Just like a fine wine, the complexity builds with time. trust me, the patience pays off.

Chilli Recipes : Beyond The Basics

This classic chili recipe is fantastic as is. but, feel free to experiment! add a can of corn for sweetness.

Or try some chopped jalapeños for extra heat. the possibilities are endless! it's your chili adventure!

The Warm Hug of a Homemade Chili Recipe

This homemade chili recipe isn't just food. it's a memory. a tradition. a way to connect with people you love.

So gather your friends and family. and get ready to savor a bowl of pure comfort. you will enjoy the best chili .

Alright, mate, let's talk chili. not just any chili, but a classic chili recipe that'll warm ya right up. we're diving deep into what makes this dish sing, starting with the ingredients.

Think of it as assembling your rock band – each member is crucial!

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients: The Chili Choir

Okay, so for this Best Chili recipe, we need to get down to brass tacks. I'm talking the precise stuff.

• 2 lbs (900g) of ground beef. I prefer 80/20 'cause it's got flavor, you know? Look for a nice, bright red color with minimal grey. Honestly, that's the only way to get that Beef Chili Recipe vibe right.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced. That's about 2 cups (300g) . Make sure it's firm, no squishy bits.
• 2 green bell peppers, diced (around 2 cups/300g ). Go for peppers that are firm and shiny.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced ( 2 tsp/8g ). Fresh is always better, trust me.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil.
• 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes.
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce.
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can diced tomatoes, undrained.
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth (low sodium).
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed.
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed.

Remember that first time I tried making chilli? I skimped on the beef and used water instead of broth. Big mistake! It tasted like sad tomato soup.

Seasoning Notes: The Spice Rack Symphony

Now, for the good stuff! This Homemade Chili Seasoning is where the magic happens.

• 2 tablespoons chili powder.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin. It's what gives it that earthy kick, ya know?
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.Adds a subtle smoky depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat). Honestly, I love a little kick.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste).
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste).

Honestly, you can swap out smoked paprika with chipotle powder for a smokier kick. and if you're out of oregano? use marjoram.

It's pretty close! that how i get the best chili recipe .

Equipment Needed: Kitchen Essentials

Let's keep it simple, shall we?

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. This is essential for even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon or spatula.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Can opener.

Don't have a dutch oven? a big, heavy pot will do. just keep an eye on the bottom so it doesn't scorch.

A good salad prep knife can also work in a pinch.

So, there you have it. all the gear and ingredients you need for a top-notch homemade chili recipe . get yourself sorted, and let’s start cooking! these chilli recipes never disappoint, especially this classic chili recipe .

Alright, let's dive into making the best chili . This is more than just a recipe. It's an experience. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying bowl!

Cooking Method: Crafting the Ultimate Classic Chili Recipe

Honestly, there are a million chilli recipes out there. but this one? this one is special. it's my go-to classic chili recipe .

It's a beef chili recipe that will warm you from the inside out. ready to learn how to make the best chili ?

Prep Steps: Mise en Place, innit?

• Essential mise en place: before we even think about heat, get organized. dice 1 large yellow onion. dice 2 green bell peppers.

  Mince 4 cloves of garlic. open all the cans. like prepping for a sunday roast, know what i mean? this is what i call, salad prep !

• Time-saving organization tips: Chop veggies first. Then measure out all your homemade chili seasoning . This avoids frantic searching later. Trust me, it works!

• Safety reminders: Be careful when dicing. No one wants to lose a finger.

Step-by-Step Process: From Prep to Perfect

1. Brown the beef: heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a dutch oven over medium-high heat. add 2 lbs ground beef and brown it.

   Drain off any excess grease. nobody wants oily chili, eh?

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5- 7 minutes . Then add minced garlic for another minute. Oh my gosh, the smell!

3. Add Tomatoes & Broth: Stir in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, and 1 cup beef broth.

4. Incorporate beans & spices: add 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, 2 tablespoons chili powder , 1 tablespoon cumin , 1 teaspoon smoked paprika , ½ teaspoon oregano , ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper , 1 teaspoon salt , and ½ teaspoon black pepper .

   Stir well. creating that homemade chili seasoning mix does the trick to improve that aroma we desire!

5. Simmer for Flavour: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours . Stir occasionally. This is key! The longer, the better.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add salt, pepper, or spices as needed. The flavor should be awesome!

7. Serve & Enjoy! Ladle into bowls. Top with cheese, sour cream, or whatever you fancy.

Pro Tips: Secrets to the Best Chili

• Spice Bloom: Toasting spices in a dry pan blooms the flavor before adding to the chili. It makes a world of difference, honestly.

• Common mistakes to avoid: Don't rush the simmer time! Also, don't over-salt. You can always add more!

• Make-ahead options: This best chili recipe is great made a day ahead. Flavors meld together beautifully overnight. Its a Homemade Chili Recipe that gets more and more appealing.

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this classic chili recipe . I'm sharing everything. Think of it as a proper guide—solid, reliable, and satisfying.

Recipe Notes: My Two Cents

Honestly, i’ve been making this beef chili recipe for years. i've tweaked it enough that i reckon i could make it in my sleep.

These are my best tips and suggestions that i've learned along the way.

Get That Perfect Bowl: Serving Suggestions

Okay, picture this: a snowy evening, and you’ve got a steaming bowl of this best chili in front of you.

What’s on top? personally, i'm all about shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and some green onions. salad prep beforehand is optional.

Tortilla chips for scooping? absolutely. a cold beer or homemade chili seasoning complements it nicely. presentation-wise, a rustic bowl just adds to the comfort factor.

Leftover Bliss: Storage Tips

So, you've made a huge pot of homemade chili recipe and have leftovers? lucky you! store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing is also an option. just let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. it’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating is easy—either on the stovetop or in the microwave. just make sure it's piping hot.

Spice It Up (Or Down): Variations

This classic chili recipe is super versatile. want to kick up the heat? add a diced jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

For a dietary twist, you can totally swap out the beef for ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version.

I have done that before and it's still really great!

If you want to try another chilli recipes i have one that uses chorizo which brings another awesome angle, and if you want to go all out on the best chili recipe out there, i once spent a whole week perfecting it and everyone that tried it would ask for the recipe.

Got some sweet potatoes lying around? Toss 'em in. They add a touch of sweetness. Seasonal? In the fall, throw in some diced butternut squash!

Nutrition Nuggets: Nutrition Basics

Let’s break it down, shall we? this chili is packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the beans, which is great for keeping you full and satisfied.

It’s also got a good dose of vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and peppers. it is worth knowing that there is salt too, which can be controlled by using low sodium broth!

Keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate, but generally, one serving clocks in around 450-550 calories.

Alright, there you have it. my insider tips for making the best chili ever. it's really not hard at all! just have fun with it.

Honestly, the most important ingredient is love. (okay, and maybe a little homemade chili seasoning !) now go forth and make some seriously good chili! i can't wait to know what you think!