
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
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
Makes 1 gallon of chili
Instructions
- 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.
- Next, add the onions, peppers and garlic to the pot and cook until browned over medium heat, about 10 minutes.
- 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.
- Finish by seasoning with salt and serve with optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes.