Name: Best Homemade Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Warm sunlight filters through the kitchen window, casting a golden glow over a simmering pot on the stove. The inviting aroma of spices mingling with hearty beef fills the air, creating a sense of comfort and warmth. This is the magic of Best Homemade Chili, a dish that transforms any gathering into a cozy affair. It’s perfect for cold winter nights, casual get-togethers, or a hearty meal after a long day. Each spoonful wraps you in a blanket of flavor, making it a beloved staple in homes everywhere.

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe

There are countless reasons to cherish Best Homemade Chili, but its simplicity and flavor undoubtedly top the list. This is a dish that caters to both novices and seasoned chefs, allowing for exploration and creativity. It’s the perfect comfort food, bringing friends and family together around the table.

Here are a few reasons you will love this chili:

It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze
Flavorful and adaptable to your taste preferences
Packed with protein and fiber for a filling dish
Leaves leftovers that taste even better the next day

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up Best Homemade Chili, you’ll need a few key ingredients. If you’re looking to alter the recipe, feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative, and mix in seasonal vegetables to add your personal touch. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Method

Creating the Best Homemade Chili is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to bring this comforting dish to life:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. The gentle sizzling will set the stage for the rich flavors to unfold.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. The warmth of the garlic will start to fill your kitchen with an inviting scent.
Next, add the ground beef to the pot, cooking until it’s nicely browned. Afterward, drain any excess fat to keep the chili from becoming too greasy.
Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute to allow the spices to bloom, enhancing their flavors further.
Add the can of diced tomatoes along with both types of beans. This will create a colorful and hearty base for your chili, perfect for scooping up with crusty bread.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together, creating that deep, satisfying taste that chili lovers crave.
Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste just before serving, adjusting to your preference for a perfect balance of flavor.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 300 each.

Prepare in Advance

Best Homemade Chili is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can chop the vegetables and measure the spices ahead of time, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Simply follow the recipe as directed when you’re ready to enjoy it.

If you want to make it a day or two in advance, let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will only get better as it sits, allowing the flavors to develop even further.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers from Best Homemade Chili are a delightful comfort for busy days ahead. Store any remaining chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. You can safely freeze Best Homemade Chili for up to 3 months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it appears too thick. A quick tip: to keep the flavors fresh, ensure the chili is cooled down before placing it in the fridge or freezer.

What Pairs Well with Best Homemade Chili

Serving Best Homemade Chili can be made even more enjoyable with the right accompaniments. Here are some ideas that complement its rich flavors beautifully:

Cornbread for a sweet and warm contrast
Fresh avocado, which adds creaminess and balances the spice
Sour cream or Greek yogurt for a touch of coolness
Chopped green onions for a fresh, mild crunch
Grated cheese to melt into the warm chili, adding richness

Make It Your Own

One of the great things about Best Homemade Chili is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to personalize this delicious dish:

Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative for a lighter option
Add colorful bell peppers for an extra crunch and sweetness
Throw in corn for a touch of sweetness and texture
Spice things up with jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce
Use different beans like pinto or navy beans for variety
Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or oregano for a unique flavor
Top with your favorite garnishes, from cilantro to lime wedges

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

For the best results with your Best Homemade Chili, keep these expert tips in mind:

Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavors
Avoid overcooking the meat to keep it tender
Allow the chili to simmer longer for deeper flavors if you have the time
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking
Taste and adjust seasonings toward the end for a customized touch
Let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make Best Homemade Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, just brown the meat and sauté the onions beforehand, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is Best Homemade Chili gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze Best Homemade Chili?
Absolutely, it freezes very well, keeping its flavor and consistency. Just remember to cool it completely before storing.
How can I thicken Best Homemade Chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, simply let it simmer uncovered for longer or add a bit of cornmeal or mashed beans to the pot.
Is Best Homemade Chili spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by controlling the amount of chili powder or by adding hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Best Homemade Chili is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting tradition that warms the heart and soul. This wholesome dish provides endless opportunities for customization and creativity, ensuring that it can be enjoyed time and time again. So gather your ingredients, invite friends or family over, and serve up a pot of goodness that everyone will rave about—and it might just become your new favorite! Enjoy making and sharing this delightful chili soon.

Best Homemade Chili

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

Warm and hearty homemade chili packed with flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings and cold nights.

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
Stir in chili powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute.
Add diced tomatoes and both types of beans, stirring to combine.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered longer or add a bit of cornmeal or mashed beans. Best homemade chili can be made in advance and tastes better the next day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American