Classic Beef Chili

Classic beef chili is a beloved dish that combines robust flavors, hearty textures, and warming spices into one satisfying bowl. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or a cold winter evening, this timeless recipe is both comforting and versatile. Here’s how to make a traditional beef chili that everyone will love.

What Makes a Great Beef Chili?

The secret to a great chili lies in its depth of flavor and balance of textures. A combination of tender beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices creates a dish that’s both rich and comforting. While everyone has their personal take on chili, the classic version remains a crowd-pleaser for good reason.

Essential Ingredients for Classic Beef Chili

• Ground Beef: The heart of the dish, ground beef provides a rich and savory base. Choose lean or medium-fat beef for the right balance of flavor and texture.
• Beans: Kidney beans and pinto beans are traditional choices, but black beans also work well.
• Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste add body and tanginess.
• Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and bell peppers build the flavor foundation.
• Spices: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano create the signature chili taste. Add cayenne or chipotle for extra heat.
• Broth: Beef or chicken broth ensures the chili is rich and saucy.

Serving Suggestions

• Toppings: Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
• Accompaniments: Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, or a crusty loaf of bread.
• Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Perfect Chili

• Layer the Spices: Toasting the spices before adding the liquids brings out their full flavor.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by increasing or reducing the cayenne or adding fresh chili peppers.
• Cook Low and Slow: Simmering the chili allows the flavors to meld and deepen over time.

Conclusion

Classic beef chili is a timeless dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. With its rich sauce, hearty ingredients, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this chili is a surefire hit. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy, satisfying taste of homemade comfort food.

Classic Beef Chili

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COURSE

Main Course

Learn how to make this recipe with straightforward instructions, helpful technique notes, and pro tips for better flavor and texture. We include timing guidance, doneness targets, and serving recommendations so you can cook with confidence.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp of olive oil
• 2 pounds of Strauss® Ground Beef
• 2 peeled and small diced yellow onions
• 2 seeded and small diced red bell pepper
• 2 seeded and small diced jalapeños
• 4 finely minced cloves of garlic
• 2 28-ounce cans of diced tomatoes in juice
• 3 15-ounce cans of kidney beans
• drained and rinsed
• 2 15-ounce cans of chickpeas
• drained and rinsed
• 1/3 cup of chili powder
• 1/4 cup of cumin
• 2 tbsp of dry oregano
• 2 tbsp of tomato paste
• salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Add the olive oil to a large pot over medium high heat and cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through out. Set aside.
2. Next, add the onions, peppers and garlic to the pot and cook until browned over medium heat, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot with the browned vegetables along with the tomatoes, beans, chickpeas, chili powder, cumin and oregano and simmer over low heat for 1 hour. Adjust the thickness of the chili with tomato paste.
4. Finish by seasoning with salt and serve with optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes.