Simple Hearty Chili (Printable Version)

Hearty chili featuring ground beef, beans, and warming spices for a quick, comforting meal.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb ground beef (substitute ground turkey for lighter option)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Canned Goods

05 - 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
06 - 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

→ Liquids

09 - 1 cup low-sodium beef broth (or vegetable broth)

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp chili powder
11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
14 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
15 - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
16 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

→ Optional Toppings

17 - Shredded cheddar cheese
18 - Sour cream
19 - Sliced green onions
20 - Fresh cilantro
21 - Sliced jalapeños

# How To Make It:

01 - Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
02 - Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook an additional minute.
03 - Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat meat and vegetables.
04 - Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor.
05 - Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
06 - Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One pot meal
  • Gluten Free option available
02 -
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra beans or chopped mushrooms
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day
03 -
  • Use low sodium broth to control salt levels
  • Let chili rest for a few minutes before serving to meld flavors
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