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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.

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

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

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/the-ultimate-chili/