There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chili on a chilly night — rich, spicy, and full of bold flavor. It’s the ultimate comfort food: warm, filling, and customizable to your perfect level of heat. Whether you love it blazing hot or mildly smoky, this recipe will show you how to make chili that’s both spicy and hearty, using simple ingredients and a few key tricks for depth and balance.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe
This chili hits all the right notes — savory beef, tender beans, a touch of tomato sweetness, and just the right amount of kick. It’s made with everyday pantry ingredients, yet it tastes like it’s been simmering in a Texas cook-off.
Here’s why this version stands out:
- Full of bold flavor from spices and aromatics.
- Thick, hearty texture that clings to your spoon.
- Easy to adjust from mild to fiery-hot.
- Perfect for leftovers, meal prep, or game days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy — just the right combination of staples:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey for a leaner version)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
Spices & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Base
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (for depth)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for balance)
- 1 splash of hot sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Next, stir in the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Pro Tip: For richer flavor, let the meat brown slightly before stirring — those caramelized bits at the bottom add amazing depth.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Once the meat is browned, sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes to “wake up” the spices.
This quick toasting step helps the chili develop a deeper, smoky aroma.
Step 3: Build the Base
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well to combine. Then add the beans and any optional ingredients like cocoa powder or brown sugar.
Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let it cook gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Texture Tip: If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth. If too thin, uncover and simmer longer to reduce.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Prefer a smoky flavor? A touch more paprika or a spoon of chipotle in adobo sauce does wonders.
Let the chili rest for 10 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve It Right
Here’s where the fun begins — chili is endlessly customizable. Serve it your way:
- Classic Bowl: With a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar.
- Tex-Mex Style: Add sliced jalapeños, avocado, and tortilla chips.
- Comfort Mode: Pair with cornbread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Chili tastes even better the next day!
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Batch cooking bonus — it’s perfect for meal prep lunches or quick weeknight dinners.
Extra Tips for the Perfect Chili
- Don’t rush the simmer — flavor develops best over time.
- Use two types of beans for more texture and color.
- Add a touch of acid (lime juice or vinegar) at the end to balance richness.
- Want vegetarian? Skip the meat and add diced sweet potatoes or lentils.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve mastered this hearty, spicy chili, you’ll never go back to the canned stuff again. It’s bold, comforting, and customizable — a one-pot meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
So grab your biggest pot, load it up with flavor, and let your kitchen fill with that irresistible chili aroma.
🔥 Save this recipe and share it with your favorite spice lover! 🌶️
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