The Best Classic Chili Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
334 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
The Best Classic Chili Recipe
Description
This chili recipe features ground beef browned with diced onion before incorporating a blend of seasonings including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and tomato paste. Adding beef broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce creates a thick, stew-like mixture. It cooks by simmering uncovered to reduce slightly and marry the flavors.
The chili balances savory and mildly spicy notes, depending on optional cayenne pepper inclusion. The spices develop depth while the beans and tomatoes contribute body and texture. The dish offers warmth and heartiness typical of classic American chili.
Serve this chili alone or with accompaniments like rice, cornbread, or shredded cheese. Adjust seasoning and heat level to taste. Letting it rest after cooking allows the flavors to settle before serving.
Notes mention that chili powder brands vary in heat, so choose one that fits your preferred spice level. The recipe also suggests omitting cayenne for mildness and providing hot sauce separately for those who want added heat.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion -diced
- 1 pound ground beef 90% lean
- 2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin ground
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper ground
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper optional
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes petite
- 1 (16 oz.) can red kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
Instructions
- Add the olive oil to a large soup pot and place it over medium-high heat for two minutes. Add the onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir until well combined.
- Add the broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well.
- Bring the liquid to a low boil. Then, reduce the heat (low to medium-low) to gently simmer the chili, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Select chili powder carefully since brands differ significantly in spiciness and flavor.
- Omit cayenne pepper for a milder chili suitable for children, and offer hot sauce on the side for adults who want extra heat.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 334 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1/6th of the recipe | |
| Calories | 334kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 34g | 11% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 49mg | 16% |
| Sodium | 1249mg | 52% |
| Potassium | 1110mg | 24% |
| Fiber | 9g | 36% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 1445IU | 29% |
| Vitamin C | 12.8mg | 14% |
| Calcium | 99mg | 10% |
| Iron | 7.5mg | 42% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.