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Easy Homemade Chili

This homemade chili is rich in tomato flavor and savory beef, making it a classic comfort food that's perfect for family dinners or game days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium 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

Method
 

Preparation
  1. 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.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for one more minute, stir to prevent burning.
  3. 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.
  4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and broth. Stir well to combine.
  6. Bring the chili to a low boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste the chili and add more salt or chili powder for heat if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For deeper flavor, brown the meat well before adding the spices. If you like a thicker chili, mash some beans with the back of a spoon while simmering. Chili often tastes better the next day after the flavors meld.