What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chili recipe is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for cozy nights in. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite toppings and ingredients.
- Rich and savory—packed with tender meat, beans, and spices for a satisfying bite every time.
- Simple to make—just brown the meat, simmer everything together, and let the flavors meld.
- Versatile and crowd-pleasing—great for game day, meal prep, or warming up on chilly evenings.
Recipe
Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade chili on a chilly day. This classic recipe is packed with bold flavors, tender meat, and just the right amount of spice. Perfect for family dinners or game-day gatherings, this chili is hearty, comforting, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili 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 the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes:
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6
Nutrition
Homemade chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that also provides essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chili with simple sides, like cornbread or a crisp green salad, to balance the rich flavors. A cold beer or a glass of iced tea works great, but I’ve also tried hot cocoa for a cozy twist. Let’s talk about the best combos to make your meal even better.
Side Dishes Ideas
When I serve up a hearty bowl of chili, I always think about what else can make the meal even better. Cornbread is my go-to—warm, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking up that spicy goodness. A simple green salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast. I also love pairing chili with tortilla chips or saltine crackers for a bit of crunch. Sometimes, I’ll whip up some fluffy baked potatoes to ladle the chili over—it’s like a two-in-one meal. These sides make the dish feel complete, and my family always asks for seconds!
Drink Pairings
Choosing the right drink to pair with chili can really elevate the meal. I love a cold beer—something light like a lager or a crisp pilsner—to cut through the richness. If you’re not into beer, try a glass of iced tea with a squeeze of lemon; it’s invigorating and balances the heat. For kids or non-drinkers, a fizzy soda or creamy horchata works wonders. And if you’re feeling fancy, a bold red wine, like a Zinfandel, complements the smoky flavors. Trust me, the right sip makes every bite even better. Cheers to a perfect chili night!
