Save A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, beans, and warming spices—perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal. Ready in under an hour!
This chili quickly became a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation because it's easy to make and always hits the spot.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can diced tomatoes
- Kidney beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Tomato paste: 1 (6 oz / 170 g) can tomato paste
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml) low sodium beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- Chili powder: 2 tbsp chili powder
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp ground cumin
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt: 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, Sour cream, Sliced green onions, Fresh cilantro, Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2:
- Add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 3:
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.
- Step 4:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 5:
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
Save This recipe always brings my family together on chilly evenings to share stories and enjoy hearty food.
Notes
Serve with cornbread or over steamed rice for a heartier meal. Adjust the cayenne and chili powder to your spice preference. For added depth, stir in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a splash of coffee.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, Cutting board, Chefs knife, Wooden spoon or spatula, Can opener
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens if prepared as listed. Toppings such as cheese and sour cream contain dairy. Double check canned goods for cross contamination if gluten sensitive.
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This simple weeknight chili is both comforting and versatile making it a go to favorite whenever you need a quick hearty meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey offers a lighter alternative, or omit meat entirely and add extra beans or chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- → How long does it take to cook?
The total cooking time is about 40 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for preparation, making it a quick meal solution.
- → What spices are essential for flavor?
Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and optional cayenne pepper combine for a warm, deep flavor profile.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, using certified gluten-free canned beans and broth ensures the meal is gluten-free friendly.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Pair it with cornbread or steamed rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and fresh cilantro add texture and flavor.