This homemade chili is hearty, warm, and packed with flavor! Filled with tender beans, ground meat, and zesty spices, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly nights.
You’ll love how easy it is to make! I usually toss everything into one pot, relax, and let it simmer until it’s full of delicious goodness. Perfect for sharing with friends! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the chili. If you want a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, swap in lentils or chickpeas!
Kidney Beans: They add heartiness and fiber. If kidney beans aren’t your favorite, feel free to use black beans or pinto beans instead. Just make sure they are canned and drained for convenience.
Chili Powder: A key ingredient for flavor. If you like your chili spicier, add extra chili powder or try a chili blend with chipotle or jalapeño. For a milder flavor, use paprika instead.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and texture. You can substitute with fresh tomatoes if they’re in season, or use crushed tomatoes for a smoother consistency.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chili Is Full of Flavor?
Flavor is key in chili! Start by sautéing your onions in oil until they are soft and a little golden; this step brings out their natural sweetness. Don’t rush the seasoning either! After browning the meat, toast the spices for about a minute before adding other ingredients. This helps unlock their full flavor potential.
- Make sure to season along the way; taste it before serving and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- If you have time, allow your chili to simmer longer. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together.
- Garnish generously with toppings like cheese and sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor.
Homemade Chili
Ingredients You Will Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For Topping:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to cook. In total, you can have a warm, hearty meal ready in less than an hour—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This will give your chili a nice base flavor.
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain it off.
4. Toast the Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let this cook for about a minute to toast the spices, which enhances their flavors.
5. Combine the Remaining Ingredients:
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
6. Bring to a Boil and Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot partially and allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This is when all those great flavors meld together!
7. Final Taste Check:
After simmering, take a moment to taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt or spices if needed, making it just right for your taste!
8. Serve It Up:
Dish out the chili into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a nice touch. You can also serve it with tortilla chips on the side for some crunch.
Enjoy your cozy, flavorful homemade chili! It’s the perfect dish for sharing with family and friends. 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still have a delicious chili!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra beans or lentils for added protein.
Can I Make Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! Chili is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, then store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier. Just reheat on the stove before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen chili, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
