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Best Homemade Chili Recipe That Is Thick Hearty And Full Of Flavor

This thick, hearty, and flavorful chili is loaded with ground meat, beans, and rich spices. It's perfect for easy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, and it's ready without long hours of simmering.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 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

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 2 pounds ground beef or beef and pork mix. Cook, stirring and breaking it up, until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add 1 chopped large onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 diced red bell pepper. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in 3 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add 2 cans diced tomatoes, 1 can tomato paste, and 2 cups beef broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Stir in 2 cans drained and rinsed kidney beans.
  7. Reduce heat to low and let simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more cayenne or hot sauce for additional heat if desired.
  9. Serve hot in bowls topped with cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Serve with cornbread or chips.

Notes

For a smokier flavor, use fire roasted tomatoes. Chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. You can also customize the spice mix with a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder, or substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.