The Best Chili Recipe

Name: The Best Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: sour cream, cheese, green onions

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your meal time with the ultimate bowl of comfort—The Best Chili Recipe! This hearty dish combines tender meat, vibrant beans, and a rich, savory sauce that warms the soul. Perfect for game nights, cozy dinners, or meal prep, this chili is packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite. Make it as mild or spicy as you like and serve it up with your favorite toppings!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-12T09:36:19.400Z

This chili has been a staple in our family for generations, evolving over the years to become a beloved comfort food.

Perfect for Any Occasion

With its robust flavors and comforting warmth, this chili recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a game night, preparing a cozy family dinner, or simply looking for a fulfilling meal during the week, this chili fits the bill. Its hearty nature makes it a fantastic choice for gatherings, allowing guests to serve themselves and customize their bowls with toppings.

Additionally, this chili is ideal for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch ahead of time, storing portions in the fridge or freezer for quick, delicious meals later. Simply reheat and enjoy, making your busy weeknights much easier!

Customizable Flavor Profile

One of the best aspects of this chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the level of spiciness to suit your palate. For a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or choose a milder variety. If you love heat, consider adding fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

In addition to spice, you can experiment with different beans, meats, or vegetables. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or add bell peppers for an added layer of flavor. This adaptability ensures that you can make this chili your own, keeping it exciting every time you prepare it.

Nutritional Benefits

This chili isn't just delicious; it also offers several nutritional benefits. Packed with protein from the ground beef and beans, it provides the energy and nutrients you need to power through your day. The inclusion of various beans adds fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full longer.

Moreover, the crushed tomatoes in this recipe are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. They provide a significant source of vitamin C and lycopene, which have been linked to various health benefits. Serving this chili with fresh toppings like green onions or dollops of sour cream adds even more nutritional value, ensuring you’re not just satisfying your hunger but also nourishing your body.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious chili.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sour cream, cheese, green onions

Make sure to have your toppings ready for a personalized bowl of chili!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook the perfect chili.

Cook the Meat

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season to Taste

Taste and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your delicious chili!

Storing and Reheating

Proper storage is key to maintaining the flavor and quality of your chili. If you have leftovers, let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label your container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover chili, reheating is a breeze. You can warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in a bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, ensuring it heats evenly.

Serving Suggestions

This chili can be served in many ways, making it even more enjoyable. A classic approach is to ladle it into bowls and top it with your favorite ingredients such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Add tortilla chips for a delightful crunch, or serve it alongside cornbread for a traditional touch.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the chili over rice or mixing it into baked potatoes. These accompaniments enhance the dish and provide a wonderful base for the flavorful chili, allowing you to enjoy every last bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this chili spicy?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder and using mild or spicy beans.