Classic Homemade Chili

Nothing beats a bowl of homemade chili on a cold day! This classic chili recipe is rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavors. Featuring ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of warm spices, it’s a one-pot meal that is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and even game-day gatherings.

What makes this chili so delicious? The slow-simmering process allows the flavors to deepen and meld together, creating an irresistibly thick, smoky, and slightly spicy dish. Serve it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips, and you’ve got a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal!

Ingredients

For the Chili:

Ground beef (80/20 blend) – 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
Olive oil – 2 tbsp (30 ml)
Yellow onion – 1 large (200 g), diced
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Red bell pepper – 1 large (150 g), diced
Green bell pepper – 1 large (150 g), diced
Diced tomatoes (canned) – 800 g (2 cans)
Tomato sauce (canned) – 400 g (1 can)
Tomato paste – 2 tbsp (30 g)
Beef broth – 250 ml (1 cup)
Red kidney beans (canned, drained and rinsed) – 400 g (1 can)
Black beans (canned, drained and rinsed) – 400 g (1 can)
Corn kernels (optional, canned or frozen) – 200 g

Spices & Seasoning:

Chili powder – 2 tbsp (30 g)
Ground cumin – 2 tsp (10 g)
Paprika (smoked or sweet) – 1 tsp (5 g)
Dried oregano – 1 tsp (5 g)
Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) – ½ tsp (2 g)
Salt – 2 tsp (10 g)
Black pepper – 1 tsp (5 g)
Brown sugar – 1 tbsp (15 g)
Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp (15 ml)

For Serving:

Shredded cheddar cheese – For topping
Sour cream – For garnish
Fresh cilantro or green onions – Chopped, for garnish
Cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips – For serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 7–8 minutes).
Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add onions, garlic, red and green bell peppers.
Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to enhance its richness.
Return the cooked ground beef to the pot.
Add all the spices, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar, stirring well.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add the Beans & Final Simmer

Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, and corn (if using).
Let the chili simmer for another 15–20 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce for added umami depth.

Step 6: Taste & Adjust

Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed—add extra chili powder or cayenne for more heat.
If the chili is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and top with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro or green onions.
Serve with warm cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

With Cornbread – A classic sweet and savory pairing.
Over Rice – Great for soaking up the rich sauce.
With Tortilla Chips – For a crunchy texture.
On a Baked Potato – A hearty twist!
As a Chili Dog Topping – Perfect for game day!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 6 Servings)

Calories: 500 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 10 g
Sodium: 900 mg

Tips & Tricks for the Best Chili

✔ Brown the Beef Well – This adds depth and flavor.
✔ Simmer for at Least an Hour – The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors.
✔ Add Cocoa Powder – A teaspoon of cocoa powder enhances the deep, smoky flavors.
✔ Balance the Flavors – A little brown sugar cuts acidity and enhances richness.
✔ Make it a Day Ahead – Chili tastes even better the next day!

Extra Additions for Even More Flavor

A Splash of Dark Beer – Adds richness.
A Square of Dark Chocolate – Deepens the sauce.
Chopped Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce – Adds smoky heat.
Ground Turkey or Sausage – For a twist on the traditional recipe.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make-Ahead – Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze? – Yes! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat – Warm on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth if needed.