What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chili recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. You’ll love it because it’s easy to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Bold spices come together to create a rich, comforting flavor that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s super flexible, so you can adjust the heat or add your favorite toppings to make it your own. And let’s not forget, leftovers taste even better the next day!
Recipe
Intro
This homemade chili recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 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
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper, sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Notes
- For a thicker chili, simmer longer. For a thinner consistency, add more broth.
- Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
6 servings
Nutrition
Chili is a hearty dish packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a typical homemade chili recipe:
Calories: 350 | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 30g | Protein: 25g | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 7g
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade chili with warm cornbread—it’s the perfect balance of hearty and sweet. For toppings, I go for shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions to add extra flavor and texture. Trust me, these pairings take chili night to the next level!
Cornbread Pairings
When I’m serving up a big bowl of homemade chili, I always think of cornbread as its perfect partner, adding a touch of sweetness and a nice, crumbly texture to balance the hearty, spicy flavors. I love baking a fresh batch—it’s quick, easy, and fills the kitchen with a cozy, buttery aroma. Sometimes, I’ll add a bit of jalapeño or cheddar to the cornbread for a little kick, but even plain cornbread works wonders. Breaking off a piece and dunking it into the chili is pure comfort food magic. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing combo that never disappoints.
Topping Options
While chili’s rich and spicy base is delicious on its own, adding toppings can take it to a whole new level. I love piling mine with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a creamy, tangy contrast. Crushed tortilla chips add crunch, while diced avocado brings a buttery smoothness. If you like heat, jalapeños or hot sauce kick it up a notch. Don’t forget fresh cilantro for a bright finish! My secret? A squeeze of lime—it cuts through the richness perfectly. Experiment with your favorites, and you’ll find the combo that makes your chili unforgettable.
