This hearty homemade beef chili is a comforting, flavorful meal made with ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onions, and warm spices. Simmered in a rich tomato sauce, it is perfect for a cozy dinner, a quick family meal, or meal prep. Serve it with crackers, cornbread, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying dish everyone will love.
Prep time
15 minutes
Cook time
35 minutes
Servings
4–6
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth or water
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Crackers or bread, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the onion and garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add the seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for about one minute to bring out the flavors of the spices.
Step 4: Add tomatoes and beans
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are combined.
Step 5: Simmer the chili
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes.
Step 6: Taste and serve
Taste the chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crackers, bread, rice, or your favorite toppings.
Tips for the Best Beef Chili
Let it simmer: Extra simmering time helps the flavors blend and creates a richer sauce.
Adjust the thickness: Add a little broth if the chili is too thick, or simmer uncovered if it is too thin.
Control the heat: Leave out the cayenne for a mild chili, or add extra chili powder for more warmth.
Add more vegetables: Chopped bell peppers, corn, or finely diced carrots work beautifully.
Make it ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.
Variations
Cheesy beef chili: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each serving.
Spicy chili: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper.
Three-bean chili: Combine kidney beans with black beans and pinto beans.
Slow-cooker chili: Brown the beef and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Low-carb option: Reduce the beans and serve the chili with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Allow the chili to cool slightly before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions until steaming hot.
For longer storage, freeze the chili in airtight containers for up to 3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chili beans instead of kidney beans?
Yes. Canned chili beans are an excellent substitute and may already contain seasoning. Adjust the spices to taste.
Can I make this recipe without tomato sauce?
Yes. Replace the tomato sauce with additional crushed tomatoes and a little broth, then simmer until the desired consistency is reached.
How can I make the chili richer?
Allow it to simmer longer, add a little extra tomato paste, or stir in a small amount of beef broth concentrate.
What should I serve with beef chili?
Crackers, cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, tortilla chips, and crusty bread are all delicious options.
Conclusion
This homemade beef and kidney bean chili is simple, filling, and packed with comforting flavor. Tender ground beef, hearty beans, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic spices come together in a delicious sauce that is easy to customize. Whether you serve it with crackers just like in the picture or add your favorite toppings, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a satisfying family dinner.