Ground Beef Chili Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish

Imagine a chilly evening when you're craving something warm and satisfying, leading you to make ground beef chili. This comforting dish is straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients you probably already have.
As you brown the beef, the aroma fills your kitchen, showcasing how a simple recipe can become a family favorite. The secret lies in achieving the perfect balance of flavors, allowing you to make this classic dish uniquely yours.
Soon, you'll uncover a world of culinary possibilities.
Key Takeaways
- Ground beef chili is a comforting dish with a simple 5-ingredient recipe.
- Core ingredients include ground beef, tomatoes, beans, onion, and chili powder.
- Brown the beef, add onions, tomatoes, and beans, then simmer for 45 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from beef and simmer covered for best flavor results.
- Serve with cornbread and toppings like cheese or sour cream for added taste.
Recipe
Ground beef chili is a timeless dish, cherished for its comforting warmth and robust flavors. This 5-ingredient recipe captures the essence of traditional chili, offering a simplified approach that doesn't compromise on taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, this recipe focuses on core ingredients to deliver a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, beans, onion, and chili powder creates a hearty dish that can easily become a family favorite.
By using a balanced mix of spices and ingredients, this chili provides a depth of flavor that pairs well with various side dishes or toppings. The inclusion of kidney beans adds a subtle texture, while the chili powder brings a gentle heat, making it suitable for all taste preferences. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or complement it with cornbread or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and add the diced onions, cooking until they become translucent.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans (including their liquid), and chili powder. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Before serving, taste and season with salt as needed.
For the best results, choose ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio to ensure proper flavor development and avoid dryness. As the chili simmers, it will naturally thicken; if it becomes too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of water or beef broth.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, and the flavors often deepen and improve the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Cooking Steps
Let's get cooking and bring your ground beef chili to life with these easy steps!
Start by browning the ground beef over medium heat, making sure to break it into small pieces, and then cook the onions until they're deliciously translucent.
Next, you'll add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans, letting everything simmer for 45 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully before seasoning with salt to taste.
Step 1. Brown Beef Over Medium Heat

To get started, begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. As the beef hits the pot, you'll hear that satisfying sizzle, a promise of the delicious flavors to come.
Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the beef into smaller pieces, ensuring it cooks evenly. Stir frequently, watching as the meat transforms from pink to a beautiful, savory brown.
This step is crucial for building flavor, as the browning process enhances the beef's rich taste, making your chili irresistibly hearty. Be patient, letting the beef brown thoroughly, but don't let it burn.
Once browned, carefully drain any excess fat, leaving behind just enough to keep everything moist and flavorful. Your chili's foundation is now set!
Step 2. Cook Onions Until Translucent

Once the beef is browned and the excess fat is drained, it's time to add the diced onions.
Watch as the sizzling pot welcomes the onions, their aroma filling your kitchen with a comforting warmth. Stir them gently, ensuring they mingle well with the beef.
You'll notice a delightful transformation as the onions soften and turn translucent, releasing their sweet essence. This step is crucial, as it builds a flavorful foundation for your chili.
Don't rush; let those onions cook slowly over medium heat until they're just right. This process usually takes about five minutes, but your patience will be rewarded with depth and richness in every bite.
Enjoy the simple joy of crafting a delicious, heartwarming dish!
Step 3. Add Tomatoes and Beans

The moment has arrived to introduce the diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the mix. This step transforms your chili into a hearty, soul-warming dish that's both comforting and delicious.
Pour in the cans of diced tomatoes, letting their juices meld with the already simmering onions and beef. Add the kidney beans, liquid and all, to enhance the texture and depth of flavor.
Stir everything together gently, ensuring the tomatoes and beans are evenly distributed. As you watch the colors blend, you'll feel the excitement of creating something truly special.
This simple addition infuses your chili with richness, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal. Get ready to savor the delightful harmony of flavors you've crafted!
Step 4. Simmer for 45 Minutes

With all your ingredients now combined in the pot, it's time to let them work their magic by simmering for 45 minutes. This step is crucial, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory harmony.
Keep your pot covered, maintaining a gentle simmer on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring every bite is infused with deliciousness.
As the minutes tick by, you'll notice the aroma intensifying, filling your kitchen with warmth and anticipation. This slow simmer not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the beef, making each mouthful delightful.
If the chili thickens too much, just add a splash of water or broth. Patience is key, and before you know it, dinner will be ready to enjoy!
Step 5. Season With Salt

As the simmering comes to an end, it's time to focus on seasoning your chili. You've reached the final step, and it's where the magic happens.
Grab a pinch of salt and sprinkle it over your bubbling pot. Taste as you go, adding more if needed, to enhance all those wonderful flavors you've developed. Salt is key; it brings out the rich, meaty notes of the ground beef and harmonizes the tang of the tomatoes.
Don't be shy—this is your chance to tailor the dish to your liking. With each stir and taste, you're making it uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
A steaming bowl of ground beef chili offers the ultimate comfort, embodying warmth and simplicity. It's a dish that wraps you in coziness with every bite.
You'll love how effortlessly it comes together, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort. This recipe proves that comfort food doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious.
Picture gathering friends and family around, enjoying hearty bowls of this classic. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table.
Don't hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
When you're craving something satisfying and easy to prepare, this ground beef chili is the perfect choice.
Dive in, savor every spoonful, and enjoy the warmth it brings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Bean?
Variety is the spice of life, so feel free to use any beans you like! Black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas work beautifully in chili.
Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to match the flavor profile of your chosen beans. Don't hesitate, experiment with different combinations, and discover new favorites.
Each bean brings its own texture and taste, adding a unique twist to your comforting chili dish. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
How Can I Make the Chili Spicier?
To spice up your chili, try adding fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers for a fiery kick, or include cayenne pepper for a consistent heat.
You can also experiment with hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to reach your desired level of spice.
For a smoky depth, incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely, you can make this chili vegetarian!
Did you know that 30% of Americans are actively trying to eat less meat?
Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils, which offer a hearty texture.
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to enhance flavor.
This version retains the comforting, bold flavors while being kinder to the planet.
Dive into this delicious, veggie-friendly chili, and you'll never miss the meat!
What Toppings Pair Well With This Chili?
You're going to love dressing up your chili with some delicious toppings!
Try a dollop of sour cream for a cool contrast, or sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese for that gooey goodness.
Freshly chopped cilantro or green onions add a vibrant kick, while a squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors.
For a crunchy twist, toss on some tortilla chips or crackers.
These toppings make your chili experience even more enjoyable!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze leftover chili!
You'll love how convenient it is. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Don't forget to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. Label with the date, so you know when you made it.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
It's perfect for those busy days!