Classic Chili Recipe
This Classic Chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of aromatic spices simmered in a rich tomato base. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s topped with shredded cheddar, sour cream, and fresh scallions for an added burst of flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 large white onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced scallions
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly softened and translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Then add the finely chopped garlic and cook while stirring for about 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Brown the Beef: Stir in the tomato paste to coat the vegetables evenly. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, approximately 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Season and Simmer: Add chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the beef and stir well. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and drained kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until the flavors meld and the liquid slightly reduces, about 20 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced scallions to garnish. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid further.
Keywords: classic chili, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, hearty chili, chili with beans
Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/classic-chili-recipe/
