The Best Homemade Homemade Chili Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chili recipe will quickly become a family favorite, with its rich flavors and simple steps. You’ll love how easy it is to customize, making it perfect for everyone at the table. First, it’s hearty and filling, packed with beans, meat, and spices that keep you warm on chilly nights. Second, it’s super versatile—you can make it spicy, mild, or even vegetarian based on your taste. Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean up and more time to enjoy your meal!
Recipe
Warm up with a hearty bowl of homemade chili, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Notes:
- For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Chili is a hearty dish packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
Calories | 350
Protein | 20g
Fat | 15g
Carbohydrates | 30g
Fiber | 8g
Sodium | 800mg
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my chili with warm, crumbly cornbread—it’s the perfect way to soak up every last bit of flavor. A fresh side salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing adds a nice balance to the hearty dish. These combos make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the chili.
Cornbread Pairings
When I’m whipping up a batch of chili, I always make sure to have cornbread ready—it’s like they’re made for each other. The sweetness of the cornbread balances the spicy kick of the chili, and I love how it soaks up the sauce without getting soggy. My go-to is a classic buttermilk cornbread, but sometimes I’ll add a twist with cheddar cheese or jalapeños. A warm slice, straight from the oven, crumbles perfectly over the top or can be dipped right in. It’s comfort food at its best, and I can’t imagine chili without it!
Side Salad Ideas
While cornbread’s a classic with chili, a fresh side salad can lighten things up and add a crisp contrast. I love tossing together a simple garden salad with crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and slices of cucumber—it’s invigorating and balances the richness of the chili. A tangy vinaigrette dressing works wonders. Sometimes, I’ll go for a Southwest-style salad with corn, black beans, and avocado, which complements the chili flavors perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add some shredded cheese and tortilla strips for extra crunch. A cool, colorful salad makes the meal feel complete, and it’s so easy to whip up!
