Hearty Beef Chili Recipe for Comforting Flavor

Name: Hearty Beef Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes; 1 can kidney beans, rinsed; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; Fresh cilantro (optional)

By Maria Del

March 8, 2025

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Catch a whiff of this Hearty Beef Chili simmering on the stove; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Picture tender chunks of beef bathing in a spicy tomato bath, mingling with beans and spices that stir your soul. Now imagine it on a chilly evening when all you want is something to wrap your taste buds in warmth and comfort – this is that dish!

It reminds me of my college days when we’d gather around a potluck feast. Everyone brought something special, but my Hearty Beef Chili always stole the show. The laughter, the smiles, and the “oohs” and “aahs” as friends dove into their bowls created memories that still bring a smile to my face today.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Hearty Beef Chili is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that warms you from the inside out
It looks stunning with vibrant colors from fresh herbs and spices
Perfect for game days or cozy family nights, it’s customizable based on what you have in your pantry

I remember one time I brought this dish to a friend’s potluck, and it vanished faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best balance between flavor and fat content; it helps avoid greasy chili.
Onion: Dice one large onion; this will add sweetness when cooked down.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they infuse the chili with aromatic goodness.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose diced tomatoes with juice; they provide richness and depth to the base.
Kidney Beans: Rinse canned kidney beans well; they add protein and texture to your chili.
Chili Powder: Use a good quality chili powder; it’s the star spice that gives your chili its signature flavor.
Cumin: Ground cumin adds an earthy tone that complements the other spices beautifully.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium beef broth works best so you can control the saltiness.
Fresh Cilantro (optional): Chopped cilantro brightens up the dish just before serving; feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop the onion and garlic finely. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent. Add minced garlic next for an intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen.

Brown the Beef: Toss in ground beef into the pot; cook until browned evenly while breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep going until there are no pink bits left.

Add Tomatoes & Spices: Pour in diced tomatoes along with their juice, stirring in chili powder and cumin for an explosion of flavor. Let those spices dance together for a minute!

Add Beans & Broth: Stir in rinsed kidney beans and pour in beef broth; bring everything to a gentle simmer. Feel free to adjust thickness by adding more broth if desired.

Simmer & Serve: Let your Hearty Beef Chili simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes; this allows all flavors to meld beautifully. Serve hot with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top if you fancy!

This delightful journey through making Hearty Beef Chili not only fills your belly but also warms your heart! Enjoy diving into each delicious bite!

You Must Know

This hearty beef chili recipe brings warmth and comfort, perfect for cold nights
The rich flavors meld together, creating a delicious meal that warms the soul
Plus, it’s so easy to make that you can whip it up in no time, even on busy days

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef to lock in flavor, then sauté the onions and garlic before adding tomatoes and spices. This sequence builds layers of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add beans for extra texture. Try varying the spices to suit your taste, such as cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance flavor, let your hearty beef chili simmer longer; overnight is best
Adjust spice levels gradually—taste as you go!
For creaminess, add sour cream just before serving for a delightful finish

My first batch of this hearty beef chili was made during a snowstorm with friends. The compliments kept coming, turning an ordinary evening into a memorable feast filled with laughter and cozy vibes.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in hearty beef chili?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

How can I thicken my hearty beef chili?

You can thicken it by simmering longer or adding cornstarch mixed with water.

Is it okay to freeze hearty beef chili?

Definitely! It freezes well and can last up to three months in the freezer.

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