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The Best Classic Chili

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The Best Classic Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for game days, cold nights, or any time you crave a bold and savory bowl of chili.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft.
  2. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover. Let simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed to reach desired thickness.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

  • Can be made ahead — flavors deepen the next day.
  • Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
  • Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/the-best-classic-chili/