Hearty Classic Chili
This simple chili relies on ground beef, canned tomatoes, and beans simmered together with onions, garlic, and spices to create a warm, thick, and comforting dish. The ingredients meld during a gentle simmer, resulting in a rich, hearty texture perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- can opener
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef preferably fattier for richness
- 1 can crushed tomatoes fire-roasted if available
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup beef broth or beer adds depth of flavor
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat your large pot over medium heat, then add a splash of oil. Toss in the diced onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Push the onions to the side of the pot. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with your spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the beef and onions. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and spices are toasted slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, rinsed beans, and beef broth or beer. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover loosely and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors deepen.
- Uncover and taste the chili, then adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered a bit longer until desired consistency is reached.
- Once the chili looks rich, dark, and the beans are tender, turn off the heat. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes if desired.
Notes
For extra smoky flavor, stir in a chopped chipotle in adobo. This chili tastes better the next day, so make ahead if you can. Feel free to add other favorite ingredients like corn or chopped peppers for variation.