Classic Beef Chili Recipe

Classic Beef Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

– **1 pound ground beef** (you can also use ground turkey or chicken)
– **1 small onion**, chopped
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 green bell pepper**, chopped
– **1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes**
– **1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans**, drained and rinsed
– **1 can (15 ounces) black beans**, drained and rinsed (optional)
– **1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste**
– **1 1/2 cups beef broth or water**
– **2 tablespoons chili powder**
– **1 teaspoon ground cumin**
– **1/2 teaspoon paprika**
– **1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper** (optional, for extra heat)
– **Salt and pepper to taste**
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**
– **Sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions** (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
– Drain any excess fat.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

3. **Add the Tomatoes and Beans:**
– Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, kidney beans, and black beans if using.

4. **Season the Chili:**
– Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
– Pour in the beef broth or water, stirring to mix everything together.

5. **Simmer the Chili:**
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
– Cover and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.

6. **Adjust Seasoning and Serve:**
– Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed.
– Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions if desired.

This chili is perfect for a cozy night in and can be served with cornbread, over rice, or with tortilla chips. It’s also a great dish to make ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Enjoy!