Index
Ingredients
Beef Chili
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Preparing the Beef Chili
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the diced green and red bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peppers are softened.
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.Tip: Ensure the beef is well browned for the best flavor.
- Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.Tip: If the chili becomes too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Beef Chili
- Ladle the beef chili into bowls.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips and Tricks
Adjusting the Spice Level
For a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the cayenne pepper. For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper.
Making Ahead
Beef chili tastes even better the next day. Prepare the chili a day in advance, refrigerate overnight, and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Freezing the Chili
Beef chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Using Different Beans
Feel free to substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g