The Best Homemade Simple Chili Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chili is packed with flavor, warmth, and comfort, making it perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare while still tasting like it simmered all day. It’s customizable to your taste, so you can make it as mild or spicy as you like. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean up afterward!
Recipe
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade chili. This classic recipe combines savory ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced green chilies.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes:
For a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño. You can also 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:
Serves 6
Nutrition
This homemade chili recipe is packed with nutrients and flavor. Below is the detailed nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 50 mg |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Protein | 25 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade chili with warm, buttery cornbread—it’s the perfect match for soaking up all that rich flavor. For toppings, I go wild with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a handful of fresh cilantro to add a little brightness. Trust me, these simple pairings take your chili from good to unforgettable.
Cornbread Pairings
Nothing beats a warm slice of cornbread alongside a bowl of homemade chili—it’s the perfect match, like peanut butter and jelly. I love how the sweetness of the cornbread balances the spicy, savory flavors of the chili. Sometimes, I’ll add a pat of butter to my cornbread right after it comes out of the oven—it melts perfectly. For a twist, I’ve tried jalapeño cornbread, which adds a bit of heat that complements the chili nicely. Whether you make it from scratch or use a mix, cornbread is a cozy, comforting side that feels like it was made just for chili.
Topping Ideas
While cornbread’s a classic partner for chili, the toppings you choose can take your bowl to the next level. I love piling on shredded cheddar—it melts into gooey perfection—or a dollop of sour cream for cool contrast. Crumbled tortilla chips add crunch, while diced avocado brings creamy richness. Fresh cilantro brightens everything up, and a squeeze of lime adds zing. For heat, I reach for pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Don’t forget green onions for a sharp bite! Mix and match to find your favorite combo—it’s all about making each spoonful uniquely delicious.
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