Homemade Chili

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade chili to warm you up on a chilly day. Rich, hearty, and full of bold flavors, chili is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by generations. This homemade chili recipe is packed with tender ground beef (or your choice of protein), a mix of beans, and a hearty tomato base, all simmered together with aromatic spices to create the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

The beauty of homemade chili is that it’s customizable to suit your taste preferences—whether you like it spicy, mild, chunky, or smooth, this recipe can be easily adapted. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping and enjoying leftovers all week long. Serve it with a side of cornbread, over rice, or simply on its own, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and filling.

Whether you’re looking to warm up after a long day, serve up a hearty meal for friends and family, or prepare a big batch for a weekend cookout, this homemade chili recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy and Quick to Make – Ready in under 1 hour, making it ideal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
2. Customizable – Adjust the heat level and ingredients to your liking.
3. Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein, beans, and vegetables to keep you satisfied.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes great leftovers that only get better with time.
5. Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to please both adults and kids.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian protein)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell peppers
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Kidney beans (or a mix of your favorite beans)
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Jalapeño peppers (optional, for extra heat)
• Lime (optional, for serving)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and use more beans, tofu, or tempeh for protein.
• Spicy Chili: Add extra jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to increase the heat.
• Smoky Chili: Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Low-Carb Chili: Skip the beans or use a lower-carb option like black soybeans or cauliflower rice as a base.
• Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef and then combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion, garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeños (if using) to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Base

Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes (with their juices), followed by the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.

Step 4: Simmer

Pour in the broth and add the beans. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken as it cooks, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the chili and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra flavor or heat. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer a little longer.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chili is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef to make the chili a bit lighter, or go for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
• Let the chili simmer for a while to develop richer flavors. The longer it cooks, the better it will taste.
• Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños and chili powder. Taste as you go to avoid making it too spicy for your liking.
• Add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Top with cheese – shredded cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can work well too.

How to Serve

Homemade chili is versatile when it comes to serving options. Serve it in a bowl on its own or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. It’s also fantastic paired with cornbread or warm crusty bread for dipping. For a lighter option, serve it with a side salad or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

2. Can I make chili ahead of time?

Yes, chili actually tastes better when made a day or two ahead. The flavors have time to meld, making it even more delicious.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the chili?

Absolutely! You can add carrots, zucchini, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

4. Is chili spicy?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder and jalapeños you add. You can adjust the heat to your liking.

5. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the meat, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

6. How do I make my chili thicker?

Let it simmer for longer, or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce.

7. Can I make chili without beans?

Yes, you can omit the beans if you prefer, or substitute them with more vegetables.

8. How can I make chili spicier?

Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh jalapeños for extra heat.

9. What toppings go well with chili?

Sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges are popular toppings.

10. Can I freeze chili?

Yes, chili freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before storing it in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Homemade chili is a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a satisfying dinner for the family, this chili recipe delivers on flavor and heartiness. With its customizable ingredients and robust flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Make it today and enjoy the rich, savory goodness of homemade chili!

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