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Classic Beef Chili Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 103 reviews

This Classic Chili recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners. Made with ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, it’s simmered to perfection in a pot, capturing the essence of traditional American chili. Topped with shredded cheddar, sour cream, and scallions, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 large white onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
  • 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 1/2 tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Toppings

  • Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
  • Sour cream, for serving
  • Sliced scallions, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat and Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes slightly softened and translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Then, add the finely chopped garlic and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
  2. Add Tomato Paste and Brown Ground Beef: Stir in the tomato paste to coat the vegetables evenly. Next, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, approximately 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the chili from being too greasy.
  3. Incorporate Spices and Simmer: Sprinkle in the chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and drained kidney beans, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally as the chili thickens and the flavors meld together, about 20 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Serve with Toppings: Ladle the chili into individual bowls. Garnish each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced scallions for added freshness and texture. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans and omit the toppings containing dairy.
  • Simmering longer will deepen the flavor; you can simmer for up to an hour if time allows.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
  • Drain excess fat after browning beef to reduce grease and keep the chili balanced.

Keywords: classic chili, ground beef chili, kidney beans, hearty chili, stovetop chili, easy chili recipe, American chili

Find it online: https://cookwithyana.com/classic-beef-chili-recipe/