A hearty, flavorful classic homemade chili made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a bold blend of spices. Perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or meal prep.
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
2 ½ tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp brown sugar
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and optional cayenne. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in beans and cook an additional 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
For thicker chili, simmer longer uncovered.
Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for variation.
Freezes well for up to 3 months.