This hearty classic chili is packed with beans, ground meat, and lots of spices. It’s warm and cozy, perfect for chilly days or when you’re just craving comfort food!
I always love making a big pot to share with friends. It’s a great way to warm up, and I must admit, I often sneak a few bites before serving. Who can resist? 😄
Serving it with some cornbread on the side makes it even better! Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, making weeknight dinners a breeze for me.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for cooking, but you could also use vegetable oil if you prefer. It has a higher smoke point and is neutral in flavor.
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its flavor and texture. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. If you want a meatless version, try using lentils or a mix of beans.
Kidney Beans: These beans add protein and fiber. If you don’t have them, black beans or pinto beans work well too. Canned beans save time, but dried beans are an option if you soak and cook them ahead of time.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor, but if you don’t have it, Mexican seasoning blends can do the trick. I like adding a pinch of cinnamon for an extra depth of flavor!
Tomato Sauce: This helps to thicken the chili. If you want a fresh taste, feel free to use crushed tomatoes instead for a chunkier texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Chili Has the Best Flavor?
Getting the perfect flavor in chili is all about building layers. Start with sautéing your onions until they are soft, which brings out their sweetness. Don’t rush this step!
- After the onions, add the garlic and spices. Cooking the spices helps release their oils and intensifies the flavor.
- Don’t forget to let it simmer! The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but an hour or more is even better.
Regularly taste the chili while it cooks and adjust seasonings as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, and you want it just right for you!
Classic Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground chuck)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For garnish:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This classic chili recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes to simmer, so you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes total. If you can wait longer for the flavors to develop, letting it simmer for an hour makes a world of difference!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Sautéing:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Don’t let it burn — we want it just right!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it out.
4. Spice it Up:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if you like it spicy). Cook for 1-2 minutes so the spices can really bloom and flavor the meat.
5. Add the Good Stuff:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and chili beans (if using). Stir everything together nice and well.
6. Bring to a Boil:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks. If you have the time, let it simmer for up to an hour for deeper flavors!
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. Everyone has their own taste, so make it just how you like it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your classic chili hot in bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and some chopped green onions or cilantro. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Happy cooking! 🍲
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just keep in mind that ground turkey has a milder flavor, so you may want to adjust your seasoning slightly to enhance the flavors.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
You can easily make vegetarian chili by omitting the meat and using additional beans or lentils instead. Add some chopped bell peppers and mushrooms for texture. Vegetable broth can replace the beef broth as well!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, chili freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It should last for about 3-4 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Serve with Chili?
Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or top it with avocado slices for a creamy touch. Enjoy your meal!
