Best Homemade Chili Recipe (Thick & Hearty)

Let me guess. You sit there craving something hearty, spicy, rich in flavor, and easy to cook without turning your kitchen into chaos. Am I close?

Well then my friend this is your sign to make a big pot of chili. Not just any chili. We are talking about the Best Homemade Chili Recipe That Is Thick Hearty And Full Of Flavor. The kind of chili that makes you wish stretchy pants were part of your wardrobe every day.

Why This Chili Recipe Hits Different

I have made a lot of chili in my life. Some were decent. Some were not worth mentioning. But this one is my go to. It is satisfying filling and does not make you feel like you need a nap afterwards. Ok maybe a short nap.

What makes it so great? Glad you asked.

• Thick And Rich without long simmering.
• Loaded With Flavor thanks to a few secret spices.
• Perfect For Meal Prep parties or anytime you get tired of takeout.

Ingredients

Ready to build flavor? Here is everything you need before you start.

• 2 pounds ground beef or half beef and half pork
• 1 large onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 green bell pepper diced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato paste
• 2 cans kidney beans drained and rinsed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

How To Make Chili

Step 1: Brown The Meat

Heat olive oil in a big pot. Add the ground beef and break it up while it cooks. When it turns brown drain the fat. It does not belong here.

Step 2: Add The Veggies

Add chopped onion garlic and both bell peppers. Cook for about five minutes until everything smells amazing.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Stir in chili powder cumin smoked paprika salt black pepper and cayenne. Cook for one minute so the spices wake up.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes And Broth

Add diced tomatoes tomato paste and beef broth. Stir until it looks perfect and saucy.

Step 5: Add The Beans

Now add the beans and stir again. You can already see chili magic happening.

Step 6: Simmer And Taste

Lower the heat and let it simmer for about thirty minutes. Stir now and then. Taste it. Too mild? Add some heat. Feeling brave? Grab the hot sauce.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Ladle the chili into bowls. Top with cheese sour cream or green onions. Grab cornbread or chips too. You earned it.

Tips To Make It Even Better

Stick with the basic recipe or level it up with these tricks.

• Use Fire Roasted Tomatoes for more smoky flavor.
• Let It Sit Overnight because chili always tastes better the next day.
• Try Your Own Spice Mix with a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder for fun.
• Switch Up The Protein using turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Common Chili Questions

Can I Make This In A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the meat first then put everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for six to eight hours. Easy win.

What If I Like It Spicy?

Add more cayenne or a chopped jalapeno with the veggies. Or splash some hot sauce and see who can handle it.

Is It Freezer Friendly?

Yes. Let it cool and store it in a container. Reheat it when your motivation hits rock bottom.

Why Homemade Chili Always Wins

You could open a can of chili but why? Homemade chili tastes better looks better and you know what is in it.

Making your own lets you control heat texture toppings and everything else. It is dinner your way.

Plus it makes enough for leftovers which is basically food gold.

Final Thoughts

This chili is simple hearty and full of flavor. It proves that good food does not have to be complicated.

Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a party it always delivers. And if someone asks for the recipe just smile and say it is a family secret.

If you want more easy comfort food ideas check out Easy Soups and Quick Dinners.