Description
This hearty, comforting chili is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Rich, flavorful, and easily customizable, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. With layers of savory meat, tender beans, and perfectly balanced spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for the ultimate experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned. Scrape browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in spices and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes, beans, and a splash of water or broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, sugar, or vinegar to taste.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs, cheese, or sour cream, alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- Taste frequently and adjust seasoning gradually.
- Simmer longer for deeper flavor.
- Try substitutions for beans or meat to suit dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg