Classic Beef Chili

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort that a steaming bowl of Classic Beef Chili brings, especially on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I tried making chili from scratch. It was a lazy Sunday, and the weather outside was frightfully cold. I wanted something hearty, something that would warm not just my stomach but my soul. As I simmered the ingredients together, the rich aromas of spices and beef filled my kitchen, enveloping me in a comforting embrace. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and I knew I had stumbled upon a dish that would become a family favorite.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked my Classic Beef Chili recipe, adding a personal touch with a blend of spices and the perfect balance of beans and beef. The beauty of chili is that it’s so versatile and forgiving; you can adjust the heat, add more beans, or throw in some extra veggies. It’s a dish that invites creativity while still being straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner. Serving it with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and maybe some warm cornbread on the side turns it into a feast that everyone can enjoy.

Whether it’s game day, a winter gathering, or just a cozy night in, this Classic Beef Chili has a special place in my heart and on my table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a memory-maker, a comfort food that brings people together. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Classic Beef Chili

The ingredients for my Classic Beef Chili are simple yet effective, combining to create layers of flavor. The key players here are the ground beef, which provides a hearty base, and a blend of spices that brings warmth and depth. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a cohesive and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: This is used for sautéing the vegetables, creating a base for your chili.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: It adds sweetness and flavor.
• 1 medium green bell pepper, seeded and diced: Adds a refreshing crunch.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Provides additional flavor and texture.
• 3 garlic cloves, pressed or minced: Enhances the overall taste profile.
• 4 ounces tomato paste: Adds richness and depth.
• 3 cups water: Helps to create the chili’s base.
• 15 ounces tomato sauce: Complements the tomato paste and adds moisture.
• 2 ½ pounds 80/20 ground beef: The main protein that gives the chili its hearty texture.
• 4 tablespoons chili powder: Provides that classic chili flavor.
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For a little kick.
• 2 15-ounce cans chili beans or kidney beans, drained and lightly rinsed: Adds fiber and texture.
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Adds brightness to the finished dish.

The Process for Making Classic Beef Chili

Making Classic Beef Chili is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. As you follow these steps, take your time to appreciate the delightful transformation of simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish. You’ll love how everything melds together, creating a robust and flavorful chili.

1. Start by heating the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Allow the oil to get hot, then add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Stir frequently, watching as the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not browned; the goal is to enhance their flavors.
2. Next, stir in the tomato paste into the sautéed vegetables. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step deepens the flavors by allowing the paste to caramelize slightly and mingle with the other ingredients.
3. Now, pour in the water and give it a good stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is where a lot of flavor comes from! It also helps deglaze the pot.
4. Add the ground beef to the pot. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef into smaller pieces as you stir it into the mixture. Cook until the beef is browned, about 6 to 8 minutes, making sure it’s fully cooked.
5. Once the beef is browned, add the tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir everything together, bringing it to a medium boil. You’ll notice the aroma wafting through your kitchen, and that’s a good sign!
6. After it reaches a boil, add the drained beans to the pot. Stir them in gently, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the chili to cook uncovered for 2 to 3 hours. This simmering process is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and the chili to thicken. Stir every so often to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
7. As you near the end of cooking, taste your chili. Before serving, add the white vinegar to brighten the flavors. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. I often find that a little extra salt or a dash of hot sauce really enhances the final taste.
8. Serve your Classic Beef Chili with toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, minced onion, or sliced jalapeños. These not only add flavor but also a nice visual appeal to your dish. Enjoy your creation!

Expert Tips about Classic Beef Chili

Every chef has their own secrets to making the best chili, and I’m excited to share mine with you! These tips will help you elevate your Classic Beef Chili experience and ensure that it’s a hit every time.

• Storage: Once you’ve enjoyed your chili, store leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.
• Freezing: You can freeze your chili for up to four months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: Consider pairing your chili with cornbread, crunchy tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Serving: Serve with a variety of toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh herbs to let everyone customize their bowl.
• Leftover Transformations: Use leftover chili to make chili cheese fries or nachos. It’s a great way to repurpose your delicious dish!

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Classic Beef Chili can be as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Weeknight Dinner: This chili is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Serve it in large bowls with crusty bread on the side.
• Game Day Treat: If you’re watching sports, serve your chili in small cups for a fun finger food. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Seasonal Gatherings: Whether it’s a winter holiday or a summer barbecue, Classic Beef Chili fits any occasion with its hearty flavor.
• Chili Bar: Set up a chili bar with toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, and sour cream. Let guests customize their own bowls!
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week. Just heat and enjoy!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Classic Beef Chili is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it yourself and feel the cozy vibes it brings to your home. Enjoy every bite, and share it with those you love!

Classic Beef Chili

Craving something hearty? My Classic Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and spices that will warm your soul. Perfect for game nights or cozy family dinners, this easy weeknight meal is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 370

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 4 ounces tomato paste
• 3 cups water
• 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 2.5 pounds 80/20 ground beef
• 4 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 15-ounce cans chili beans or kidney beans, drained and lightly rinsed
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Start by heating the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Allow the oil to get hot, then add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Stir frequently, watching as the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not browned; the goal is to enhance their flavors.
2. Next, stir in the tomato paste into the sautéed vegetables. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step deepens the flavors by allowing the paste to caramelize slightly and mingle with the other ingredients.
3. Now, pour in the water and give it a good stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is where a lot of flavor comes from! It also helps deglaze the pot.
4. Add the ground beef to the pot. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef into smaller pieces as you stir it into the mixture. Cook until the beef is browned, about 6 to 8 minutes, making sure it’s fully cooked.
5. Once the beef is browned, add the tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir everything together, bringing it to a medium boil. You’ll notice the aroma wafting through your kitchen, and that’s a good sign!
6. After it reaches a boil, add the drained beans to the pot. Stir them in gently, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the chili to cook uncovered for 2 to 3 hours. This simmering process is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and the chili to thicken. Stir every so often to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
7. As you near the end of cooking, taste your chili. Before serving, add the white vinegar to brighten the flavors. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. I often find that a little extra salt or a dash of hot sauce really enhances the final taste.
8. Serve your Classic Beef Chili with toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, minced onion, or sliced jalapeños. These not only add flavor but also a nice visual appeal to your dish. Enjoy your creation!

Notes

Once you've enjoyed your chili, store leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

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Meet Molly Brooks

I love mixing nostalgic flavors with fun, fresh twists. My goal is to make cooking the best part of your day. I loved making this recipe, and I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home!