The Best Chili Recipe

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines tender ground beef, savory spices, and a medley of beans for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for cozy nights in or serving at your next gathering, this chili is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Top it off with your favorite garnishes for a delicious finish that everyone will love.

Skylar Jennings

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2025-11-27T15:37:09.639Z

This chili recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it's easy to see why. With a blend of spices that warms the soul and a mix of hearty ingredients, it's the perfect dish to enjoy with loved ones.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This chili recipe is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together with friends or preparing a comforting meal for family on a chilly evening, this dish is bound to impress. With its robust flavors and hearty texture, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser that warms hearts and bellies alike.

One of the best things about this chili is its adaptability. Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Add in some fresh vegetables for an extra nutritional boost, or spice it up with additional chilies for those who enjoy a fiery kick. The possibilities are endless!

Easy to Make Ahead

If you're looking for a meal prep option, this chili is an excellent choice. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for longer-term storage. Simply reheat when you're ready to enjoy it again, and you'll have a delicious meal that tastes as good as fresh-cooked.

Making chili in large batches is not only economical but also time-saving. It allows you to take the stress out of weekday dinners or busy weekends. Just pop it in the slow cooker, and you'll have a fragrant, mouth-watering dish waiting for you at the end of the day.

Garnishes Make It Special

Don't forget about the toppings! While this chili is delicious on its own, adding garnishes can elevate the dish to another level. Consider a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess or sprinkle some shredded cheese for an extra indulgence. Fresh green onions or cilantro can offer a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Explore different toppings to match your taste or the mood of the occasion. Crushed tortilla chips can add a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of lime can provide a zesty finish. Encouraging guests to personalize their bowls can make the meal even more enjoyable and interactive.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you need for a perfect chili before you begin cooking.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions

Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking your delicious chili!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chili masterpiece.

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add the Vegetables and Spices

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy the warmth of this hearty chili.

Now that you've completed your chili, serve it up and enjoy the comfort it brings!

Nutrition Insights

Chili is not only satisfying but also nutrient-rich. With a good mix of protein from the ground beef and fiber from the beans, this dish is great for supporting a balanced diet. The combination of spices not only enhances the flavor but may also provide health benefits, such as improving digestion and boosting metabolism.

By incorporating beans into the recipe, you are adding a source of plant-based protein and healthy carbohydrates, making this chili a filling and nutritious option. Additionally, using lean ground beef ensures that you get all the flavor without excessive fat, making this chili a wholesome family meal.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing beverages with your chili, consider a refreshing beer or a robust red wine. A lager or pale ale can help cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience. Alternatively, a full-bodied Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon can complement the bold flavors beautifully.

For a non-alcoholic option, a simple iced tea or lemonade can provide a nice contrast to the spice and richness of the chili. A light salad on the side could also work wonders, offering a fresh, crisp component to balance the warmth of the dish.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute, and make sure to use vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

The Best Chili Recipe

Warm up your evenings with this hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines tender ground beef, savory spices, and a medley of beans for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for cozy nights in or serving at your next gathering, this chili is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Top it off with your favorite garnishes for a delicious finish that everyone will love.

Prep Time15.0
Cooking Duration60.0
Overall Time75.0

Created by: Skylar Jennings

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 6.0

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 lbs ground beef
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 can kidney beans, drained
  5. 1 can black beans, drained
  6. 1 can diced tomatoes
  7. 2 tbsp chili powder
  8. 1 tsp cumin
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 1 cup beef broth
  11. Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 03

Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 05

Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy the warmth of this hearty chili.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g