Introduction

Ground Beef Chili is one of those timeless comfort dishes that brings everyone to the table. Made with tender ground beef, hearty beans, juicy tomatoes, and a bold mix of spices, this chili delivers deep, smoky, and savory flavors in every spoonful.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, game day, or meal prep, it’s a one-pot classic that never disappoints. With its rich texture and perfectly balanced spices, this dish embodies the heart of home-style cooking.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Ground Beef Chili because it’s comforting, customizable, and endlessly satisfying. It fills the house with an inviting aroma and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

It’s also a nutritional powerhouse — packed with protein, fiber, and warming spices. You can make it as spicy or mild as you like, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy it all year round. Best of all, it’s made in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

One-pot meal: Simple to make and easy to clean up.
Rich, bold flavors: Layers of smoky, spicy, and savory goodness.
Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day.
Family favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Customize with different beans, veggies, or spice levels.

If you’re looking for a hearty, soul-warming, and foolproof dish, this chili is an absolute must-try.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings and Nutrition Info

Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 400–450 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex
Course: Main Course / Dinner / One-Pot Meal

Ingredients

For the Chili:

1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (85% or 90%)
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is very lean)
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 (15 oz / 425 g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz / 425 g) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz / 225 g) 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
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For Garnish (optional):

Shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped green onions
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Diced avocado or tortilla chips

Simple Cooking Directions

Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
Add bell pepper and spices.
Stir in beans, tomatoes, and broth.
Simmer until thick and flavorful.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until browned and no longer pink.
Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the beef.
Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices and enhance their aroma.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth.
Mix well, then bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If it becomes too thick, add a bit more broth or water.
Taste and adjust seasonings — add brown sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon into bowls and garnish with cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or green onions.
Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve

This chili is delicious served on its own or paired with:

Crusty bread or cornbread
Steamed rice or quinoa
Over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
With tortilla chips for dipping
Topped with avocado, jalapeños, or shredded cheese

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, potlucks, or game-day gatherings!

Additional Recipe Tips

For thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
Add a square of dark chocolate or a splash of coffee for deeper flavor.
Use high-quality chili powder for the best taste.
Make it vegetarian by replacing beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Chili always tastes better the next day — make it ahead for meal prep!

Variations

Spicy Chili: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or more cayenne.
Chunky Beef Chili: Use diced chuck roast instead of ground beef for a heartier texture.
Sweet Potato Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Southwest Chili: Stir in corn and black beans for a Tex-Mex twist.
Cheesy Chili: Mix in cheddar or Monterey Jack at the end for creamy texture.
Low-Carb Chili: Skip the beans and add mushrooms or cauliflower instead.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in intervals. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Can opener
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter but equally delicious version.

Q2: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours.

Q3: How can I make my chili thicker?
Let it simmer uncovered, or mash a few beans into the mixture for natural thickening.

Q4: Can I make it without beans?
Yes! Just increase the amount of beef or add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

Q5: What if it’s too spicy?
Stir in a bit of sour cream, sugar, or extra tomatoes to balance the heat.

Conclusion

The Ground Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. With its rich blend of spices, tender beef, and hearty beans, this chili is both nourishing and satisfying.

Whether it’s a chilly evening, game day, or just a craving for something cozy, this one-pot wonder never fails to impress.