Bursting with savory spices, hearty beans, and rich, meaty flavors, The Best Ground Beef Chili is a true comfort food classic you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for game day or just craving a cozy bowl on a chilly evening, this chili is guaranteed to satisfy. Each spoonful is loaded with tender beef, aromatic veggies, and the perfect balance of smoky heat, earning its place as a beloved favorite for all chili lovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with The Best Ground Beef Chili couldn’t be easier. Every ingredient plays an important role, bringing depth, color, and heartiness to your bowl. Gather these kitchen staples and you’ll see how each one layers in flavor and transforms humble chili into something truly memorable:
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness while helping veggies and spices bloom in the pot.
- Onion (diced): Sweet and savory, onion forms the aromatic foundation for deeply flavorful chili.
- Green bell pepper (diced): Lends crunch and freshness, balancing the hearty beef and beans.
- Garlic (minced): Essential for bold, irresistible flavor—don’t skip it!
- Ground beef (80/20): The main event! This proportion keeps your chili juicy and flavorful without being greasy.
- Chili powder: The backbone of chili’s signature taste—go for a high-quality, fresh blend for max impact.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthy warmth and authentic Southwestern flair.
- Smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness that elevates every bite.
- Dried oregano: Brings an herby depth that punches up the classic chili flavor.
- Salt: Highlights every ingredient and ensures your chili isn’t bland.
- Black pepper: A little heat, a lot of character—don’t leave it out.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who crave even more kick, a pinch takes things up a notch.
- Canned diced tomatoes (with juices): Provides tangy brightness and a robust base for simmering flavors.
- Canned tomato sauce: Thickens and enriches the chili, creating that classic, luscious texture.
- Kidney beans (drained and rinsed): Classic chili beans that hold their shape and soak up all those flavors.
- Pinto beans (drained and rinsed): Creamy and tender, they bring variety and substance to your chili.
- Beef broth or water: Adds moisture and just the right touch of umami. Use broth for an even richer result.
How to Make The Best Ground Beef Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them together for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and just beginning to caramelize. These veggies form the fragrant foundation that makes The Best Ground Beef Chili so deeply flavorful and inviting.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute. This short sizzle is all it takes for the garlic to release its full aroma, paving the way for an irresistible chili base you’ll notice with every bite.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot and use a wooden spoon to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Sauté for several minutes until the meat is thoroughly browned and there’s no pink left. If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it now—this keeps the final result rich but not greasy, a hallmark of The Best Ground Beef Chili.
Step 4: Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Give everything a good stir and let these spices toast for 1 to 2 minutes. This quick step blooms the seasonings, drawing out their full-bodied flavors and infusing the beef with warmth, depth, and a whisper of smokiness.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth or water. Mix everything together until totally combined. The mixture will look hearty and satisfyingly chunky—exactly what you want for The Best Ground Beef Chili!
Step 6: Simmer and Let Flavors Marry
Bring the pot just to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Let your chili gently simmer, uncovered, for 30 to 45 minutes. Give it a good stir now and then as it bubbles away. Over time, the chili will thicken, the flavors will deepen, and the aroma will become absolutely irresistible. Taste and adjust seasonings right at the end, then you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve The Best Ground Beef Chili
Garnishes
The crowning glory of The Best Ground Beef Chili is always the toppings! Classic choices like shredded cheddar, a generous dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions make every bowl pop. Don’t forget a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a scattering of chopped cilantro if you’re craving extra color and heat.
Side Dishes
Chili night isn’t complete without something to serve alongside. Pair this comfort classic with warm, fluffy cornbread, crunchy tortilla chips, or even simple saltines for dipping. A crisp, tangy coleslaw can also cut through the richness and make your meal feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve your chili in bread bowls for an edible (and fun!) twist, or spoon it over baked potatoes, nachos, or fries for hearty chili cheese perfection. Small ramekins turn The Best Ground Beef Chili into a great starter at parties, too—just add mini spoons and watch them disappear!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The flavors of The Best Ground Beef Chili just get better with time, making leftovers something to look forward to! Let your leftover chili cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. In the fridge, it will keep fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
This chili is a true freezer hero. Allow it to cool completely, ladle into portioned freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for prepping ahead for busy nights—just thaw, reheat, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s bubbling and hot. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave does the trick too! Add a splash of water or broth if it’s gotten a bit thick and bring it back to its hearty, scoopable self.
FAQs
Can I make The Best Ground Beef Chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies and spices, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours for incredible depth of flavor and ease.
Is it possible to make this chili spicier?
Certainly—up the cayenne or toss in a chopped jalapeño with your onions and bell peppers. Taste as you go so your spice level is just how you like it.
What are the best beans for The Best Ground Beef Chili?
Kidney and pinto beans are classic and hold up well during simmering, but feel free to use black beans, chili beans, or whatever you prefer. Mixing up bean varieties gives your chili wonderful texture and variety.
Do I have to use ground beef or are there other options?
This recipe shines with beef, but you can sub in ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles if you need a lighter or vegetarian version. Adjust your seasonings to taste and enjoy your own spin!
How thick should The Best Ground Beef Chili be?
It should be thick and chunky—hearty enough to stand up to a spoon (or a pile of toppings!). If it’s too thin, just let it simmer a bit longer uncovered. For extra thickness, mash some beans against the side of the pot as it cooks.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soul-warming, foolproof chili recipe that’s rich in flavor and easy to pull together, make The Best Ground Beef Chili your go-to. It’s a family favorite for good reason—simple ingredients, big taste, and total crowd-pleaser every time. Give it a try and watch it become your new signature dish!
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The Best Ground Beef Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a bowl of The Best Ground Beef Chili – a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This classic chili recipe is packed with tender ground beef, beans, and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
Spices:
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Canned Goods:
- 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
Liquid:
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef, cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Combine Ingredients: Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and broth. Simmer for 30–45 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Notes
- For extra spice, add more cayenne or jalapeño.
- Chili freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
