A hearty and flavorful beef chili recipe perfect for cozy nights.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4–6 bowls 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 oz) can black beans or pinto beans, drained
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1.5 cups beef broth or water
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar, fresh cilantro, green onions
Instructions
In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned and crumbly—the meaty base of your ultimate comfort meal. Drain excess fat if needed.
Toss in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until soft. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and paprika for that flavor-loaded chili magic.
Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Pour in beef broth and bring everything to a simmer—the rich texture starts building now.
Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. It thickens into that classic chili dream texture.
Serve warm and top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for the ultimate cozy night win.
Notes
For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper.
This chili can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.
Feel free to customize with your favorite beans or vegetables.