This homemade chili is warm, hearty, and perfect for cold days! Made with ground beef, beans, and spices, it packs a flavorful punch that will make your taste buds dance!
Just imagine curling up with a big bowl of this chili while watching your favorite show. I like mine topped with cheese and a dollop of sour cream—so comforting! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the chili, giving it a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Onion & Garlic: Both add great flavor. I recommend using a yellow onion for sweetness. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder as a quick substitute, but nothing beats fresh onion and garlic.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add texture and acidity. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use those; just chop them up! You can also substitute with crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother chili.
Beans: Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans or pinto beans make excellent substitutes. If you’re avoiding beans altogether, you can add more meat or veggies like bell peppers.
Spices: Chili powder is essential for flavor. If you don’t have it, you can mix cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to approximate it. Experiment with your favorite spices to find your ideal blend!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Chili Consistency?
The goal of chili is to achieve a thick, hearty consistency without it being too watery. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:
- Sauté the onions and garlic well to enhance their flavors before adding other ingredients.
- Use less liquid; start with a cup of beef broth or water and add more only if needed.
- Simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate.
- Stir occasionally to break up any lumps and ensure even cooking.
- If you accidentally make it too runny, you can mix in a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water to thicken it up.
Enjoy crafting your delicious homemade chili!
Homemade Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30-45 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 1 hour. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become softened and translucent.
2. Cook the Garlic:
Now add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds. This will release a lovely aroma—just be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add in the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, and continue to cook until it is browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it before moving on.
4. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
5. Combine Everything:
It’s time to add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth (or water). Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Let It Simmer:
Bring your chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer gently for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when all the flavors meld together beautifully!
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want extra salt, pepper, or spices depending on your taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your homemade chili hot! Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy the cozy and flavorful goodness!
Feel free to customize this chili to your liking, and don’t forget to share with family and friends for a warm gathering!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions for a lighter chili option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and add more beans, like black beans or pinto beans. You can also incorporate diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Yes, this chili actually tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Freeze Leftover Chili?
Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
