Here’s a hearty, flavorful Homemade Chili 🌶️🥩 — perfect for a cozy meal and even better the next day!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
- Cook the meat
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add aromatics
- Stir in onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Build the chili
- Add beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth.
- Stir in all seasonings.
- Simmer
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Simmer uncovered for 25–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Topping Ideas 🧀
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro
Tips
- Better next day: Chili tastes even richer after sitting overnight.
- Thicker chili: Simmer longer or mash some beans.
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
If you want, I can give you a slow cooker chili or a no-bean Texas-style chili 😄
