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Best and Easy Beef Chili Recipe

This Best and Easy Beef Chili recipe is hearty, flavorful, and packed with protein. It’s the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender ground beef, kidney beans, and a robust tomato base seasoned with aromatic spices. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy night in or a game-day gathering, this chili will warm you up and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle for serving
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

  • For the Chili:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 15 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 6 oz can tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Sliced green onions
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  • Prepare the Base:
  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Brown the Beef:
  • Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  • Add the Spices:
  • Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices, cooking for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  • Combine the Ingredients:
  • Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Simmer:
  • Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the kidney beans and black beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.