Name: The Best Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 tbsp chili powder (adjust for spice level); 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1¾ cups low sodium beef broth (or one 14.5 oz can); 1 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes; 1 15 oz can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 15 oz can pinto or black beans, rinsed and drained; Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped red or green onions, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips or cornbread.

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As the cool wind rustles through the trees and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a bubbling pot of chili wafting through your home. The Best Chili Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening. This comforting dish is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table, whether it’s game day or a cozy night in. With its hearty ingredients and a touch of spice, this chili warms your soul and sparks joy, making it a beloved staple in many kitchens.

Why You’ll Adore This Chili Recipe

What makes The Best Chili Recipe truly special is its beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delightful combination of savory beef, hearty beans, and bright, tangy tomatoes. This chili is not only satisfying but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, it promises comfort in every spoonful. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

Hearty and filling
Perfectly seasoned
Easy to customize
Great for leftovers
Perfect for gatherings

Ingredients for The Best Chili Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any great dish, and The Best Chili Recipe is no exception. You can easily swap or adjust ingredients, tailoring it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 lb lean ground beef
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tbsp chili powder (adjust for spice level)
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
3 tbsp tomato paste
1¾ cups low sodium beef broth (or one 14.5 oz can)
1 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes
1 15 oz can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 15 oz can pinto or black beans, rinsed and drained

Optional toppings:
Shredded cheddar cheese, Sour cream, Avocado slices, Chopped red or green onions, Fresh cilantro, Tortilla chips or cornbread.

How to Cook The Best Chili Recipe

Creating your batch of The Best Chili Recipe is a straightforward process that yields delightful results. Follow these steps for a delicious pot of chili:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes softened and fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned, which should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste into the mix and stir well, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the spices.
Pour in the beef broth and take the opportunity to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, as this will add great flavor to your chili.
Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes along with the kidney beans and pinto or black beans. Mix everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1-2 hours while stirring occasionally. Cover the pot for the first part to enhance the flavors, then uncover during the last 30 minutes to help thicken the chili.
Once ready, serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped green onions, or cilantro. Enjoy the cozy flavors of The Best Chili Recipe!

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 1-2 hours, Total ~ 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, Servings ~ 6-8, Kcal ~ 400 (estimated per serving).

Make-Ahead Tips

If time allows, prep The Best Chili Recipe in advance for those days when life gets hectic. You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and measure out the spices a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply proceed with the cooking steps. Chili also tastes great when made a day ahead; the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect dish to prepare in advance.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from The Best Chili Recipe is easy. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the chili on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. To maintain its freshness, add a splash of broth or water if it seems a bit thick.

Perfect Pairings

Enhancing your chili experience is simple when you have the right accompaniments. Here are some delicious ideas to serve alongside The Best Chili Recipe:

Cornbread, its sweet flavor contrasts well with the spice of the chili.
Tortilla chips, perfect for scooping and adding crunch.
A dollop of sour cream, which adds creaminess and balances the spice.
Fresh avocado slices, for a cool, creamy bite.
A side salad, adding freshness to your meal.
Steamed rice for a comforting base to enjoy the chili.

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to make The Best Chili Recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients. Here are some variations to consider:

Make it vegetarian by swapping ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Add heat with jalapeños or hot sauce for those who love spice.
For a smoky flavor, include a bit of chipotle in adobo sauce.
Use turkey instead of beef for lighter protein.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients.
Adjust the beans based on personal preference, trying black beans or white beans.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure The Best Chili Recipe turns out perfect each time, keep these tips in mind:

Use high-quality beef for better flavor; grass-fed is a great option.
Don’t rush the simmering process; low and slow creates the best flavors.
Allow the chili to sit for a bit before serving; it thickens and tastes even better.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; everyone’s palate is different, so make it yours!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned beans are a great time-saver. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the pot.
Is it necessary to use fire-roasted tomatoes?
While it adds a unique flavor, you can use regular diced tomatoes if that’s what you have.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
How do I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder or toss in diced jalapeños or serranos for extra heat.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, leftover chili freezes well. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is more than a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings friends and family together. With its rich flavors and heartiness, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of cooking, and enjoy the delightful experience of creating a pot of chili that will make your home feel festive and inviting. Give it a try soon, and delight in the joy it brings to your table!

The Best Chili Recipe

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 135 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Diet: None

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Description

A comforting and hearty chili that’s perfect for gatherings, rich in flavors and easy to customize to your taste.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes softened and fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned, which should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste into the mix and stir well, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the spices.
Pour in the beef broth and take the opportunity to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, as this will add great flavor to your chili.
Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes along with the kidney beans and pinto or black beans. Mix everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 90 minutes to 120 minutes while stirring occasionally. Cover the pot for the first part to enhance the flavors, then uncover during the last 30 minutes to help thicken the chili.
Once ready, serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped green onions, or cilantro.