Classic Beef Chili

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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 recipe

Classic Beef Chili

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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Servings 4 people

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.
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