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The Best Ever Classic Homemade Beef Chili (One-Pot/Stovetop)

Close-up of a hearty bowl of rich, dark red chili loaded with ground meat and kidney beans.
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This hearty, award-winning flavor chili recipe uses simple ingredients to create a thick, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or game day.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (16 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (16 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (secret ingredient for depth)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and cocoa powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, and water to the pot. Stir everything together well.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for 2 to 3 hours.
  6. Taste the chili and adjust salt or cayenne pepper as needed before serving.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a slow cooker option, combine all ingredients in the crockpot after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
  • This thick chili recipe tastes even better the next day.
  • If you prefer a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce during the last 30 minutes of simmering.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/best-award-winning-chili-recipe-flavor-secrets/