If you’re craving a soul-warming dish that’s packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this Homemade Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender ground beef, a melange of beans, and a perfectly balanced blend of spices that create a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. From the first simmer to the final topping of cheese and green onions, you’ll find this chili to be a delightful combination of textures and tastes that’ll have you coming back for seconds and sharing it with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to making a delicious chili that bursts with flavor. Each component plays a key role, from the fresh vegetables adding vibrant color and texture to the spices that build its robust taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing vegetables and enhancing richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 280g): Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), chopped (about 140g): Brings a subtle crunch and bright color.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the chili with that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1 pound ground beef (450g): Provides hearty protein and a meaty base.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor for richness and body.
- 3 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice giving the chili its signature warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds earthy undertones that complement the chili powder.
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano: Lends herbal notes that balance the spice blends.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Delivers an optional fiery kick for those who love heat.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a subtle spicy background note.
- 1 (14.5-ounce/411g) can diced tomatoes: Adds fresh, natural tomato chunks and juices.
- 1 (8-ounce/226g) can tomato sauce: Contributes smooth texture and tomato richness.
- 1 (16-ounce/454g) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained: For hearty texture and protein.
- 1 (16-ounce/454g) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained: Adds creaminess and variety to the beans.
- 2 cups beef broth (480mL): Creates a flavorful cooking liquid and rounds out the chili.
- Shredded cheese: Perfect for melting on top and adding creamy indulgence.
- Sour cream: Balances the spices and adds cool creaminess.
- Tortilla or corn chips: Offers a crunchy contrast and handy scoop for the chili.
- Sliced green onions: Bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish with a mild bite.
How to Make Homemade Chili Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing them for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. This step builds a flavorful foundation, softening the vegetables and releasing their natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for just one more minute. The garlic will become fragrant, infusing the base with an irresistible aroma that’s hard to beat.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and cook it thoroughly until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Browning the beef not only improves the texture but also enhances the overall flavor, as those browned bits stick to the pot and deepen the chili’s taste. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Now the magic of the spices begins. Stir in the tomato paste to add intensity, followed by chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast just enough to release their full aroma and deepen the complexity of the chili. This step is essential to transform those dry spices into a vibrant, living flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, providing that rich, saucy base that everyone loves in chili. Then, add the rinsed and drained kidney beans and pinto beans for that classic, hearty bite. Pour in the beef broth, which will help all the ingredients blend together beautifully while simmering. Give everything a thorough stir to combine all the elements perfectly.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then lower the heat and let the chili cook uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the chili thickens and the flavors meld into a rich, harmonious blend that warms you from the inside out. Patience here is rewarded with a deep, satisfying bowl of homemade comfort.
Step 6: Serve
Once your chili has reached the perfect thickness and flavor, ladle it into bowls and prepare to dress it up. Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crunchy tortilla or corn chips, and a scattering of sliced green onions for freshness. Serve immediately while it’s hot, and watch everyone dive in with big smiles.
How to Serve Homemade Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes can completely elevate your bowl of chili. Shredded cheese melts beautifully on the warm chili, adding a gooey richness. Sour cream introduces a creamy coolness that balances the spices, while fresh green onions offer a crisp bite and bright color. Tortilla or corn chips bring texture and make perfect vehicles for each delicious spoonful. Experiment with jalapeños, diced avocado, or even a squeeze of lime to suit your taste buds!
Side Dishes
Pairing your Homemade Chili Recipe with the right sides turns it into a full feast. Cornbread with a touch of honey is a classic companion that complements the chili’s spicy notes. A simple green salad can refresh your palate, and a bowl of steamed rice can help mellow the heat while adding extra comfort. For a fun twist, serve chili over baked potatoes or alongside toasted garlic bread.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve your chili in mini bread bowls to make it extra special for gatherings. Or layer it in a casserole for a chili pie topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. A chili bar setup letting everyone add their own toppings is perfect for parties and family dinners, making the experience interactive and memorable. No matter how you present it, this Homemade Chili Recipe is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chili is one of those dishes that only seems to get better after a day or two in the fridge. Store your leftovers in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days. Before serving again, give it a good stir and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing
If you want to stash some extra chili for a busy day later on, it freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your chili slowly on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions covered loosely to retain moisture, heating in intervals and stirring between.
FAQs
Can I make this chili recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Adding mushrooms or chopped vegetables can also boost texture and flavor without missing out on the heartiness.
How spicy is this Homemade Chili Recipe?
The recipe has a nice moderate heat from chili powder and a touch of cayenne pepper, but you can always adjust the cayenne amount to make it milder or spicier, depending on your preference.
What beans work best in chili?
Kidney beans and pinto beans are traditional favorites because they hold their shape well and add creamy texture. You can also mix in black beans or cannellini beans for variety, depending on what you like.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just keep in mind it cooks a bit faster and can be dryer, so be sure not to overcook and consider adding a little extra broth or tomato sauce.
How long can I let the chili simmer?
While 30 to 45 minutes is perfect for balancing flavors and thickening, you can simmer it longer over low heat to deepen the taste even more. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to avoid scorching.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chili Recipe brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of love to your table every time you make it. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as easy as it is delicious and perfect for sharing with those you care about. So go ahead, dive in, and make some wonderful memories around a steaming bowl of chili that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Print
Homemade Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for comforting meals. Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, this chili simmers to perfection, delivering a rich and spicy experience. Topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and crispy chips, it’s ideal for family dinners or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Chili Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 280g)
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), chopped (about 140g)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (450g)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 (14.5-ounce/411g) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce/226g) can tomato sauce
- 1 (16-ounce/454g) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (16-ounce/454g) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups beef broth (480mL)
Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Tortilla or corn chips
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili from being greasy.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to toast the spices, which enhances their flavors and adds depth to the chili.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rinsed and drained red kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the chili to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, tortilla or corn chips, and sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives or extra beans.
- Letting the chili rest for a few hours or overnight will deepen the flavors.
- Serve with cornbread or rice for a more filling meal.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
