Classic Easy Ground Beef Chili
This classic ground beef chili recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, featuring a hearty mix of beef, beans, and a rich tomato base. It's perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can (15-ounce) diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 can (15-ounce) kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15-ounce) pinto beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can (8-ounce) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart, then drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened (3-5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
- Pour in undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed and drained kidney beans and pinto beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
- Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat, taste, and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the chili simmer longer, up to an hour, keeping an eye on the liquid level. Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.