Hearty Beef Chili Recipe: A Slow-Cooked Comfort Classic

Ultimate Chili Recipe to Warm Your Soul

Kick off this chili recipe with a burst of smoky chili powder, tender beef, and hearty kidney beans for a cozy dinner that never disappoints.

Ingredients for a Hearty Chili Recipe

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ pounds ground beef
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth (or stock)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Servings

12 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Brown the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 8–10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes and green chile peppers. Stir to combine.
6. Add kidney beans and beef broth. Bring mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 4 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow-cooked method deepens flavors for an unforgettable bowl of spicy chili.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian twist: Swap ground beef for lentils or chopped mushrooms to make a meatless chili.
• Heat level: For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day—prepare a day in advance and reheat slowly.
• Freezer-friendly: Portion into freezer-safe containers for quick weeknight dinners.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 274 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Protein: 19 g
• Fat: 13 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
• Fiber: 7 g
• Sodium: 959 mg
• Sugar: 4 g

Simmered to perfection, this chili recipe brings everyone together with its bold flavors and comforting warmth.