The Best Homemade Chili Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade chili recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. You’ll love how simple it is to customize with your favorite toppings.

• Rich and hearty: The blend of spices, beans, and meat creates a satisfying dish that warms you up from the inside out.
• Easy to tweak: Make it spicy, mild, or even vegetarian—this recipe adapts to your taste without fuss.
• Meal prep friendly: It tastes even better the next day, so leftovers are a bonus, not a chore.

Recipe

Nothing beats the comforting warmth of homemade chili, especially during colder months. This recipe delivers a rich, hearty flavor with just the right amount of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. Simple to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a timeless dish that never disappoints.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, coating the meat mixture evenly.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Notes:

• For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

Time:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Cuisine: American

Serving: 4-6 people

Nutrition

This homemade chili recipe is packed with essential nutrients and offers a hearty meal. Below is the nutritional information per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade chili with warm, buttery cornbread—it’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet. For toppings, shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions add layers of flavor that make each bite even better. Don’t forget some diced avocado or a handful of tortilla chips for extra fun!

Cornbread Pairings

Cornbread’s sweet, crumbly texture makes it a perfect match for a hearty bowl of chili, and I’ve found that it’s even better when paired with a few extra sides. A crisp green salad with tangy dressing cuts through the richness, while pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick. I love serving it with a dollop of honey butter—it melts into the warm bread, making every bite irresistible. For something creamy, try a scoop of sour cream or a slice of sharp cheddar. These combos turn a simple meal into something special, balancing flavors and textures just right.

Topping Suggestions

When serving chili, toppings can take it from good to great, adding layers of flavor and texture that make every bite exciting. I love piling on shredded cheddar for creaminess, diced avocado for freshness, and a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat. Crumbled tortilla chips add crunch, while chopped cilantro brings a bright, herby kick. Don’t forget pickled jalapeños if you like extra spice! For a fun twist, try crispy bacon bits or a squeeze of lime. The best part? Mixing and matching to suit your taste—every bowl becomes your own masterpiece. Enjoy experimenting!