Ground Beef Chili Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Winter Warmer
Are you looking for a comforting and delicious chili recipe to warm you up on a cold night? Look no further! This ground beef chili recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty game-day feast. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor while being simple enough for even beginner cooks to master. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous serving of chili, perfect for sharing (or leftovers!). Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef: The star of the show! Choose a higher fat content for richer flavor.
- 1 Large Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 Bell Peppers (any color), chopped: Adds vibrant color and sweetness.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
- 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes: Provides the base for our chili.
- 1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce: Adds body and tang.
- 1 (15 ounce) can Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed: For added texture and protein.
- 1 (15 ounce) can Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed: Another great source of protein and fiber.
- 1 (10 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (Rotel), undrained: For a spicy kick and extra flavor. If you prefer a milder chili, use a regular diced tomato can instead.
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder: This is your primary chili flavoring – adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Oregano: A classic chili herb.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional): For extra heat.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: For a little bit of spice.
- Beef Broth (optional): For a thinner chili.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This ground beef chili recipe is surprisingly easy to follow. Here's how to make it:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, Rotel, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or longer for a deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes! If you prefer a thinner chili, add beef broth as needed during simmering.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your ground beef chili hot, topped with your favorite fixings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
- Beans: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or chickpeas.
- Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Slow Cooker: This chili is also perfect for a slow cooker! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This ground beef chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy! Remember to share your chili creations and tag us! We'd love to see your culinary masterpieces.
