The Best Homemade Beef Chili Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll love this homemade beef chili because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd.
- Rich and savory: Packed with tender beef, beans, and spices, every bite is satisfying.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
- Comfort food at its best: Warm, filling, and perfect with cornbread or over rice.
Recipe
Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade beef chili on a chilly day. This classic recipe is packed with rich flavors, tender beef, and a perfect blend of spices for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Notes:
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Letting the chili sit for 10-15 minutes before serving enhances the flavors.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6
Nutrition
This homemade beef chili recipe is packed with flavor and essential nutrients. It offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade beef chili with warm, crumbly cornbread—it’s the perfect match for soaking up the rich flavors. For toppings, I go all out with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions to add freshness. Trust me, these pairings and toppings take chili night to the next level!
Cornbread Pairings
When I’m whipping up a batch of homemade beef chili, I always love pairing it with warm, fluffy cornbread—it’s like they were made for each other! The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread perfectly balances the rich, spicy flavors of the chili. I usually bake mine in a cast-iron skillet for that golden, crispy edge. Sometimes, I’ll add a touch of honey or jalapeños to the batter for a twist. Tearing off a piece and dunking it into the chili is my favorite way to enjoy them together—it’s comforting, hearty, and just feels right every time.
Topping Ideas
One of the best parts about serving homemade beef chili is how versatile it is with toppings—you can really make it your own! I love piling on shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of chopped green onions. Crushed tortilla chips or oyster crackers add a nice crunch, and a spoonful of tangy pickled jalapeños gives it a kick. For freshness, I’ll sometimes add diced avocado or a sprinkle of cilantro. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll drizzle a bit of lime juice on top. Don’t forget the cornbread on the side—it’s the perfect companion!
