The Best Homemade Chili is a hearty and comforting dish that’s packed with bold flavors and a perfect blend of spices. It’s not too spicy or overly complex either.

I think it’s an ideal dish for chilly autumn or winter nights, and if you’re not a fan of beans, feel free to omit them. It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a robust & warming meal that’s not overly complicated, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a rich and savory chili and pair it with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro, you get the perfect bowl of comfort food. The addition of cornbread just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for cozy, heartwarming meals, and this robust chili reminds me of family gatherings and cold winter evenings. Not a fan of beans? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without them.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener

Ingredients

Chili:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Toppings:

Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced green onions
Cornbread

Directions

Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Brown Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add Tomatoes and Beans:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Beans:
- Stir in the kidney beans and black beans, and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, until the chili is thickened and flavors are well combined.
Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings and a side of cornbread.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

45 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 420
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 980mg
Total Carbohydrate: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 11g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 28g

Enjoy this hearty and comforting Best Homemade Chili, perfect for warming up on a cold day or feeding a crowd at your next gathering!