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Classic Beef Chili

Classic Beef Chili
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Classic Beef Chili is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish made with lean ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, a blend of beans, diced tomatoes, and a robust mix of spices. Perfect for any occasion, this easy one-pot meal delivers rich flavors and satisfying texture, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Tomatoes

  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Spices and Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquids

  • 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
    Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant to build the base flavor.
  2. Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
    Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned through, allowing caramelization that locks in savory richness.
  3. Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes
    Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Stir well to coat the meat evenly. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
  4. Step 4: Mix in Beans and Simmer
    Fold in the drained and rinsed beans. Let the chili simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
  5. Step 5: Season and Serve
    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give the chili a final stir and serve hot with your favorite garnishes and sides.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices (less than six months old) for the best flavor.
  • Don’t skip browning the beef to develop a richer savory taste.
  • Simmer the chili low and slow for maximum flavor development; 1-2 hours is ideal.
  • If chili gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency.
  • Chili often tastes better the next day after flavors have melded.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef chili, classic chili, comfort food, one-pot meal, hearty chili, ground beef chili

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/classic-beef-chili/