Ground Beef Chili
A hearty and easy-to-make ground beef chili perfect for weeknight meals, packed with flavor and customizable with various toppings and beans.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80-85% lean) Ground beef gives the chili its classic flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed You can substitute with pinto beans or omit them.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed Optional.
- 2 tbsp chili powder Adjust according to taste.
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Optional, for more depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- to taste hot sauce Optional, for added heat.
Instructions
Cooking the Chili
- In a big pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans (if using), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
- Bring the chili to a simmer and let it bubble for at least 25 minutes.
- If the chili thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.
Notes
This chili can be frozen for later. To freeze, store in single servings for easy reheat. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm from frozen in a pot over low heat. Add water to adjust thickness if needed.