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A hearty pot of homemade beef chili loaded with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, and colorful green peppers in a rich, savory tomato-based sauce.

Hearty Classic Chili

Hearty classic chili with seasoned ground beef, kidney and pinto beans, green pepper, and a rich tomato base. Simple stovetop method that simmers into a thick, comforting pot perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or freezing for later.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cans 15 oz each kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a large pot. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Add onion and green pepper; cook until softened. Stir in garlic.
  3. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne; stir to coat.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add beans.
  5. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with desired toppings.

Notes

Longer simmering improves flavor. Freezes and reheats excellently. Adjust cayenne for heat preference. Ground turkey can replace beef. Classic toppings: cheese, sour cream, green onions, cornbread, or crackers. Tastes even better the next day.