This homemade Chili Recipe is full of rich tomato taste, savory beef, and soft beans, it is a classic comfort food that almost everyone loves. The recipe is simple, ready in about an hour, and uses pantry staples, so you can make it on short notice. If you want a warm dessert after chili, try an easy blueberry crisp recipe that is quick and sweet. You will find this chili tasty, easy to change for your family, and fun to cook, so get ready to make a big pot and enjoy.
Why You’ll Love Easy Homemade Chili
This homemade chili is warm, full of flavor, and easy to make. It uses simple ingredients like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices. The chili is hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners, game days, or cold nights. You will like how the flavors come together in one pot, and how easy it is to change the heat or add more vegetables. This easy chili recipe becomes a crowd-pleaser fast, and it works well as a weeknight meal or for a big batch to share.
How to prepare Easy Homemade Chili
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth, or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic and cook one more minute, stir so it does not burn.
- Add the ground beef, break it up with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain extra fat if you want a leaner chili.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a low boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring now and then. The chili will thicken and the flavors will blend.
- Taste and add more salt or chili powder for heat if needed. Serve hot.
Tips for success
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease, or use ground turkey for a lighter chili.
- For deeper flavor, brown the meat well and let it brown bits stick to the pan, then deglaze with a little broth.
- Taste as you go, add salt or chili powder a little at a time.
- If you like a thicker chili, mash some beans with the back of a spoon while simmering.
- Make it ahead, chili often tastes better the next day after the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions.
- Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or over steamed rice.
- Add a side salad or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal.
- For a party, set out toppings like jalapeños, cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, brown the meat and sauté the onion and pepper first. Then put all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
Q: Can I use different beans?
A: Yes, use any canned beans you like, such as black beans, cannellini, or a mix. Drain and rinse them before adding.
Q: How do I make the chili spicier or milder?
A: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne for heat, or reduce the chili powder and use mild diced tomatoes to keep it mild.
Q: Can I freeze leftover chili?
A: Yes, cool the chili, put it in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Easy Homemade Chili Recipe is a simple, hearty meal that warms the body and the soul. If you want another clear, tested version of this classic, see Easy Homemade Chili Recipe – Allrecipes for more tips and variations.
Easy Homemade Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for one more minute, stir to prevent burning.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain extra fat if desired.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a low boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the chili and add more salt or chili powder for heat if needed. Serve hot.
