The Best Homemade Classic Chili Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade classic chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or a big gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The hearty mix of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions to make it your own. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!
Recipe
Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. This classic recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Notes: For spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Equipment: Large pot, wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons.
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6
Nutrition
This classic homemade chili is packed with nutrients from a variety of wholesome ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Sugar | 5g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chili with warm, buttery cornbread—it’s the perfect way to balance the spice. Adding toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions can take it to the next level. Let me share some of my favorite combinations to make your chili meal even better!
Cornbread Pairings
When it comes to rounding out a bowl of hearty chili, cornbread steps up as a trusty sidekick. I love how its crumbly texture and rich flavor balance the boldness of chili. For sweet pairings, I drizzle honey over warm cornbread or sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar—it’s a match made in heaven. On the savory side, I mix in shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or even cooked bacon into the batter for a hearty twist. Whether you prefer it plain or jazzed up, cornbread’s versatility makes it the perfect companion to chili, adding comfort and satisfaction to every bite.
Topping Ideas
Although chili shines on its own, it’s the toppings that really let it sparkle, turning a simple bowl into something special. I love piling on shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions—classic choices that never disappoint. For a kick, jalapeños or hot sauce work wonders. Crumbled cornbread or tortilla chips add crunch, while avocado slices bring creaminess. Don’t forget fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for brightness. With so many chili variations, your serving suggestions can change the vibe—try Fritos for a fun twist or pickled red onions for tang. The best part? Mixing and matching to make it your own!
