This Ground Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. It brings that classic diner style flavor right to your kitchen without requiring hours of work. My husband constantly craves a specific bowl of chili from a local spot, so I set out to recreate that same nostalgic taste at home.
This recipe is a game changer because it uses a unique blend of spices and a touch of brown sugar to balance the acidity. It simmers to perfection, creating a thick, hearty texture that is perfect for topping with cheese and onions. If you enjoy easy ground beef dinners like my French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes or Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, you will love this recipe.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Ground Beef Chili
I find that using 90% lean ground beef is the best choice here because you get great flavor without needing to drain too much grease. I also recommend using San Marzano tomatoes if you can find them, as they provide a sweeter, richer taste for the sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 small green bell pepper (seeded and diced)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 pounds ground beef (90% lean) – I prefer this ratio for the best texture.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – I usually start with less to keep it mild.
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 (16 ounce) can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 (16 ounce) can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
Step-by-Step Instructions
In my experience, taking the time to sauté the vegetables first really builds a deep flavor base for the chili.
Step 1: Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until slightly softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Drain any excess grease and return the pot to low heat.
Step 3: Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, dry mustard, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes over the meat. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and brown sugar. Add the rinsed beans. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes. Uncover and continue simmering for 10 to 15 minutes until the chili reaches your desired thickness.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Chili
This chili pairs well with sides that add texture and balance the rich flavors.
Simple Mac and Cheese: The creamy texture of mac and cheese contrasts perfectly with the savory, spicy notes of the chili for a comforting meal.
Cheesy Taco Potatoes: Serve the chili over these cheesy potatoes for a hearty, loaded meal that stretches the recipe further.
Loaded Steak Potatoes: A baked potato style side that adds a satisfying starch to soak up the flavorful broth.
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad helps lighten the meal and adds a nutritious element.
Fritos: These add a salty crunch that kids and adults love when sprinkled on top.
Storage & Serving Tips
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight.
For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove. I recommend adding a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the consistency.
FAQs
Can I use different beans?
Yes, you can substitute black beans or navy beans if you prefer. I recommend keeping the total amount of beans the same for the best texture.
How do I make the chili thicker?
For a thicker consistency, simmer the chili uncovered for a longer time. You can also mash a few beans against the side of the pot to release their starches.
Is this chili spicy?
As written, it is mild. You can easily increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Chili is a reliable, flavorful meal that fits perfectly into a busy week. It is easy to customize and tastes even better the next day. Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner and enjoy the classic comfort it brings.
Ground Beef Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up meat with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease and return the pot to low heat.
- Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce and stir it into the meat mixture. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, dry mustard, oregano, salt and pepper over the mixture and stir until well combined. Allow the mixture to cook over low heat for a minute or two.
- Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, and beans. Increase the heat as needed to bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Uncover and continue to simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until it reaches the desired thickness.
