The Ultimate Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chili stands out for its deep, layered flavor and satisfying texture. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to make in large batches, and even better the next day. Whether you like it mild or spicy, with or without beans, this adaptable recipe lets you make it your own while delivering that rich, slow-cooked taste every time.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
• Yellow onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Black beans or pinto beans (optional)
• Beef broth or water
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Brown sugar (for balance)
• Worcestershire sauce (adds depth)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened.
2. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to develop flavor.
5. Add diced tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and all seasonings. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let it cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a splash of Worcestershire or a pinch of brown sugar for extra depth.
8. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare. Prep time is around 15 minutes, and simmering time is 45–60 minutes for optimal flavor.

Variations

• No Bean Chili: Omit the beans for a classic Texas-style chili.
• Turkey Chili: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use meatless crumbles or extra beans and veggies like bell peppers and corn.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
• Slow Cooker: Brown meat and aromatics, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
• Beer Infusion: Replace some broth with dark beer for a deeper, malty flavor.
• Chunky Style: Use cubed chuck roast instead of ground beef for a more stew-like texture.
• Chocolate Touch: Stir in a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder for a subtle richness.
• Sweet Corn Add-In: Add frozen or canned corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Low Carb: Skip the beans and add diced zucchini or mushrooms for bulk.

Storage/Reheating

Chili stores exceptionally well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes, chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

Can I freeze chili?

Absolutely. Cool it completely before freezing in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

What’s the best meat for chili?

Ground beef is classic, but you can also use ground turkey, pork, or cubed chuck roast.

Do I have to use beans?

No, you can skip the beans for a traditional beanless version.

How can I thicken chili?

Simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or stir in a spoonful of cornmeal or masa harina.

Is chili supposed to be spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on your taste. Adjust the heat with cayenne, hot sauce, or jalapeños.

What toppings go well with chili?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips are all great options.

Can I use canned beans?

Yes, canned beans are convenient and work perfectly. Just drain and rinse them first.

How long should chili simmer?

At least 45 minutes, but the longer it simmers, the better the flavor.

What side dishes go with chili?

Cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips are all excellent companions.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Chili is a rich, comforting meal that brings bold flavor and satisfaction in every bowl. Whether you serve it on game day, at a family dinner, or freeze it for busy nights, this versatile dish never disappoints. Customize it to your taste and enjoy a hearty, homemade classic that always hits the spot.

The Ultimate Chili

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The Ultimate Chili is a hearty one-pot meal made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices simmered to rich perfection. Comforting, versatile, and deeply flavorful, it’s perfect for game days, family dinners, or cold nights.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust with Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar for balance.
8. Serve hot with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.

Notes

• Chili tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
• For thicker chili, simmer uncovered or stir in masa harina.
• Adjust spice level by adding or reducing cayenne or jalapeños.
• Use canned beans for convenience, or substitute with extra vegetables for a beanless version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg