Hearty Beef Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hearty Beef Chili
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty beef chili to chase away the chill of a cold day. This comforting dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Packed full of flavor and wholesome ingredients, this chili recipe is perfect for family gatherings, game day, or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking, which makes it a staple in many households.
A Personal Story Behind My Hearty Beef Chili Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals that brought us together. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother making her famous chili on snowy days. The aroma would fill the house, and we could hardly wait for it to be served. This recipe is inspired by her love for cooking and the joy of sharing food with family. I hope it brings as much warmth and happiness to your home as it did to mine.
What Makes This Hearty Beef Chili Recipe Special?
This hearty beef chili stands out for its rich flavors and the variety of beans that provide both texture and nutrition. Unlike many chili recipes, this one incorporates a blend of black, kidney, and pinto beans, making it not only hearty but also high in protein and fiber. The combination of spices, such as chili powder and cumin, elevates the flavor profile, while the addition of jalapeños gives it a perfect kick—adjustable to your taste! This chili is also incredibly versatile; you can easily modify it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
The Full Hearty Beef Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium red onion, diced (or yellow onion)
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (seasoned or plain, with their juice)
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 15 oz black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 15 oz kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 15 oz pinto beans (with their juice, or white beans with their juice)
- 2 oz jar of diced jalapeños or mild green chilis (or to taste)
- 15 oz canned corn (drained, or use frozen or fresh corn kernels)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock or water (or as needed, to thin the chili)
Instructions
- In a 5-quart pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Stir in the diced onion, chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are softened. This step builds the base flavor of your chili.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced jalapeños or chilis, and corn. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer partially covered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thinner chili, add water or chicken stock towards the end of cooking. Remember, the chili will thicken slightly as it cools.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt if desired. This is your chance to make it just right for your palate!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hearty Beef Chili
Serve your hearty beef chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or avocado slices for added creaminess. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a more filling meal. If you’re looking for variations, consider adding bell peppers for sweetness, or swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based meat for a lighter option. For a spicier kick, simply add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Beef Chili
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili turns out too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to help thicken it.
Can I use different types of beans?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans or even use lentils for a different texture.
Hearty Beef Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium red onion, diced or yellow onion
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 /2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 /2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp fine sea salt or to taste
- 1 /4 tsp black pepper or to taste
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes seasoned or plain, with their juice
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
- 15 oz kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 15 oz pinto beans with their juice, or white beans with their juice
- 2 oz diced jalapeños or mild green chilis, or to taste
- 15 oz canned corn drained, or use frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 1 /2 cup chicken stock or water, or as needed to thin the chili
Instructions
- In a 5-quart pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Stir in the diced onion, chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are softened. This step builds the base flavor of your chili.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced jalapeños or chilis, and corn. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer partially covered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thinner chili, add water or chicken stock towards the end of cooking. Remember, the chili will thicken slightly as it cools.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt if desired. This is your chance to make it just right for your palate!