What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chilli recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, using everyday ingredients you likely already have. The rich, smoky taste comes from a blend of spices that’s just right—not too hot, not too mild. Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can tweak it to match your family’s favorites. And best of all, it freezes beautifully, making it a lifesaver for busy days!
Recipe
Chilli is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold days or casual gatherings. This homemade version is packed with ground beef, beans, and spices for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chilli powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in chilli powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Let the chilli rest for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade chilli recipe is packed with essential nutrients, providing a balanced meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
What To Serve With It
I’ve found that pairing homemade chilli with the right sides makes the meal even better, so I usually go for cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad. For drinks, I like something cooling, like a lime-infused soda or a glass of iced tea. These combos balance the richness of the chilli, and they’re always a hit with my family.
Side Dishes
A few simple sides can take your chilli meal from good to great. I love serving mine with fluffy cornbread—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. A crisp green salad with avocado adds freshness, balancing the rich, spicy flavors. For something heartier, try buttery garlic toast or a scoop of rice to stretch the meal further. Don’t forget toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions—they’re quick but make all the difference. These sides keep things easy while letting the chilli shine. Trust me, your family won’t leave a single bite behind!
Beverage Pairings
Now that we’ve covered sides, let’s talk about drinks—because nothing beats a cold, revitalizing sip alongside a bowl of spicy chilli. I love pairing my chilli with a crisp lager or pale ale; the bubbles and slight bitterness cut through the richness perfectly. If you’re not into beer, a chilled glass of iced tea with a squeeze of lemon works wonders. For something fizzy, try a ginger ale or root beer—they’re surprisingly rejuvenating. Personally, I always keep a pitcher of agua fresca or lemonade on hand for a sweet, tangy contrast. Whatever you choose, it’s all about balance!
