Hearty Homemade Chili

Name: Hearty Homemade Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 cup water

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 1 hour

🍽 Serves: 8

★★★★★

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If there's one dish that wraps you in warmth and fills your home with the most tantalizing aroma, it's this Hearty Homemade Chili. It's packed with rich flavors and a touch of spice, perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you're hosting a casual get-together.

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Ingredients for Hearty Homemade Chili

Let's break down what makes this chili truly special. Starting with ground beef, it gives the chili a hearty base, soaking up all those wonderful spices. The onion and garlic introduce a subtle sweetness and depth, while green bell pepper adds a fresh, slightly bitter note that balances the dish. The canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce provide a rich, tangy backdrop. Our kidney beans and black beans bring texture and essential protein, making each bite a delightful experience. Now, the spices: chili powder gives it that classic kick, while cumin and paprika add a warm, earthy flavor. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances everything, with a hint of cayenne pepper to keep things interesting. Finally, a cup of water helps to meld all these flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them in.
If you're short on time, use a pressure cooker to cut the cooking time in half.
Let it sit overnight in the fridge for an even deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. Serve it with warm cornbread or over a bed of fluffy rice. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can add a creamy touch. For a bit of freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well if you prefer a lighter option.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?: Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or your favorite meat substitute.
Can I freeze the leftovers?: Yes, this chili freezes beautifully. Just portion it into airtight containers and it’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Hearty Homemade Chili Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You'll know it's ready when it’s browned and the juices run clear. Go ahead and drain the excess fat carefully — no one wants greasy chili.

Next, add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation for your chili.

Now, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and water. Give it a good mix so that everything is nicely combined.

Time to season! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes I add a little more salt or chili powder, depending on my mood.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich, complex flavors developed in just one pot.
Flexible spiciness to suit all taste buds.
Perfect for meal prep — tastes even better the next day!
Filled with protein and fiber for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

2 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 cup water

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and water.

4. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.

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