This classic chili is a warm and cozy dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors. Made with tender meat, beans, and a mix of spices, it’s the ultimate comfort food!
I love how perfect it is for cold days. Plus, it’s easy to make a big pot, so there’s always enough to share—or not! Don’t worry, I won’t tell if you keep it all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use ground beef for its rich flavor, but you can swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian choice, try adding more beans or lentils!
Beans: Kidney and black beans add great texture and protein. If you don’t have them, feel free to use pinto or chickpeas instead. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well!
Spices: Chili powder gives it that nice kick. If you want a smokier taste, smoked paprika is perfect. Don’t hesitate to adjust the heat by playing with the cayenne pepper. Or skip it entirely if you prefer milder chili!
Tomato Ingredients: Diced tomatoes and tomato paste bring the chili together. You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them, but you might need to simmer longer to reach the right consistency.
What’s the Best Way to Make Chili Flavorful?
Getting the flavors just right in chili is all about layering and simmering. Start by cooking the onions and garlic slowly to bring out their sweetness. Don’t rush the browning of the meat; this step adds depth!
- Heat oil and sauté onions until soft. This takes about 4-5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for a minute. Make sure it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can be bitter.
- Brown the meat well, breaking it up. This adds flavor as it caramelizes.
- After adding spices, let them toast for about a minute. This helps release their rich flavors.
- Finally, simmer the chili for 30 minutes to an hour. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together.
Classic Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Chili:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground chuck)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Topping:
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Saltine crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This classic chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 to 60 minutes to cook, depending on how long you want to let it simmer. All in all, you’re looking at about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot and break it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out for a leaner chili.
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little spice). Mix it all together and let the spices cook with the meat for about a minute. This will help release all those delicious flavors.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth (or water), kidney beans, and black beans. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it cook longer—up to an hour—will enhance the flavors even more. Just remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
After simmering, taste your chili. You can add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. The flavors should be rich and satisfying!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Don’t forget the saltine crackers on the side for crunch!
Savor the hearty and comforting flavors of this classic chili. It’s a perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day and can easily be enjoyed as leftovers too! Enjoy! 🍲
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the type of meat you choose.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans, lentils, or diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and nutrition. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool fully before sealing and freezing!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper, or leave it out altogether. For those who want more heat, feel free to add more spices or include fresh jalapeños or hot sauce to taste!
