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Best Chili Recipe with Ground Beef: Thick, Hearty, and Full of Flavor

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This classic ground beef chili is rich, hearty, and full of bold flavor—made with beef, beans, tomatoes, and a perfect spice blend. Ideal for cozy dinners, meal prep, or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 yellow onion, diced

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 3 tbsp chili powder

  • 1 tbsp cumin

  • 2 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp oregano

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained

  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 tsp brown sugar

Instructions

  • In a large pot, heat oil. Sauté onion 3–4 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute.

  • Add ground beef. Brown and break up meat, 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat.

  • Stir in tomato paste and all spices. Cook 2 minutes.

  • Add tomatoes, beans, broth, and brown sugar. Mix well.

  • Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with toppings of choice.

Notes

  • For extra depth, add a splash of coffee or beer.

  • Use ground turkey or vegetarian protein as desired.

  • Chili thickens as it cools and tastes even better the next day.