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Best Beef Chili Recipe

4.9 from 120 reviews

This Best Beef Chili recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a rich blend of spices, it simmers to a savory, thick consistency that’s both comforting and satisfying. Easy to prepare on the stovetop and customizable with your favorite toppings, this chili is ideal for cozy nights or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef (85/15)
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 15-oz. can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15-oz. can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15-oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth or water)

Optional Toppings

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fritos
  • Green onion

Instructions

  1. Heat the pot: Place a large stockpot over medium-high heat to preheat and prepare for sauteing.
  2. Sauté meat and aromatics: Add ground beef, diced yellow onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened.
  3. Add beans and tomato base: Mix in the drained pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and maple syrup. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Season and add broth: Add chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and ground pepper to the pot. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth (or your liquid of choice) and stir to blend all flavors.
  5. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
  6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, Fritos, and chopped green onions. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the seasoning mix.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Make ahead tip: Chili often tastes better the next day after flavors have developed.
  • Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 4 days and freeze up to 3 months.
  • Adjust broth quantity if you prefer a thicker or thinner chili consistency.

Keywords: Beef chili, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, hearty chili, bean chili