Damn Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

“Damn Chili” is the perfect name for this incredibly flavorful, hearty, and spicy dish. Packed with a robust combination of spices, tender meat, beans, and tomatoes, this chili is a delicious blend of savory, smoky, and spicy flavors that will make you say “damn” after every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or feeding a crowd at your next game day party. Plus, it’s versatile—whether you like it extra spicy or prefer a milder version, you can easily adjust the heat to your liking. This chili is sure to become your go-to recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey or chicken for a leaner version)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for balancing the acidity)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

• Sour cream (optional, for topping)

• Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, kidney beans, and black beans. Mix well.

4. Season the Chili: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

5. Simmer: Pour in the broth and bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken as it cooks and the flavors will meld together.

6. Adjust the Flavor: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed. If the chili is too acidic, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the flavors.

7. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 45 minutes

• Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or just increase the beans (add pinto beans, for example) for a vegetarian version. You can also add more vegetables like corn or zucchini for added texture.

• Extra Heat: If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick.

• Milder Version: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild chili powder. You can also add a bit more sugar to balance out the heat.

• Meat-Free: You can make this chili entirely meat-free by using beans and vegetables as the base. For added flavor, consider adding a little extra smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• Freezing: Chili freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. They’ll provide a leaner option with similar texture, though the flavor will be slightly milder than beef.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the chili?

Absolutely! You can add extra veggies like corn, zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

3. Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes! Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

4. How do I make this chili spicier?

For an extra spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also incorporate fresh diced jalapeños, serrano peppers, or even a few dashes of hot sauce into the chili.

5. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the beans and adjust the seasoning just before serving.

6. Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can use different beans such as pinto beans, black-eyed peas, or navy beans, depending on your preference.

7. How can I thicken the chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or immersion blender to achieve a thicker consistency.

8. How can I make this chili less spicy?

To make the chili less spicy, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also add more sugar to balance out the heat, or serve it with a dollop of sour cream to mellow the flavor.

9. Can I use store-bought chili seasoning?

Yes, you can use store-bought chili seasoning if you prefer, but the homemade seasoning blend gives the chili a more personalized flavor. If you use a seasoning packet, follow the instructions on the package.

10. Can I serve this chili with anything on the side?

Yes, serve this chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions for added flavor.

Conclusion

“Damn Chili” is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying dish that packs a punch of spice and comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to feed a crowd, or a comforting meal on a cold day, this chili is sure to impress. With customizable heat levels and endless variations, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes. Give this chili a try, and you’ll see why it’s the kind of dish that makes you say “damn” after every bite!