Classic Chili Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, this Classic Chili Recipe is an absolute winner. With tender ground beef, fragrant spices, and beans simmered to perfection, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening — and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Rich, layered flavors: Combining spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder creates a delicious depth that sings in every bite.
Simple ingredients, incredible results: You don’t need fancy or complicated items to pull off a satisfying meal.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or game day gathering, this chili fits right in.
Customizable and forgiving: Easily swap meat or beans to suit your taste or pantry availability without losing any of the magic.

Ingredients & Substitutions

The beauty of this Classic Chili Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—onions and garlic build a flavor base, spices bring warmth, while beans and beef add substance and texture. The tomatoes lend a lovely tang and color, making this chili both scrumptious and inviting.

• Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing onions and garlic; adds a mild fruity flavor without overpowering the dish.
• White onion and garlic: These aromatic staples deepen the flavor profile and create a savory foundation.
• Ground beef: The hearty protein star of the show; can be swapped with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Tomato paste, crushed tomatoes & tomato sauce: These layered tomato elements give chili its rich, tangy body.
• Beans (kidney and pinto): Add texture, nutrition, and a pleasant creaminess; can substitute with black or navy beans.
• Spices (chili powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne): The soul of this dish—balance these for a mild to spicy kick!
• Beef broth: Provides moisture and depth to the chili’s base; low sodium options work well for those mindful of salt.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to bring everything together perfectly.

How to Make Classic Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and let them cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent—a sign their natural sweetness is coming alive. Next, stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for just one more minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma that signals something delicious is underway.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Mix in the tomato paste with your softened onions and garlic, making sure it coats all the veggies evenly. This little bit of tomato magic adds richness and a deep umami boost right upfront in your chili.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Now for the hearty part—add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown well, about 7 minutes, until it’s no longer pink. This step not only cooks the meat but also caramelizes it slightly, imparting incredible depth to your chili. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat for a leaner finish.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground coriander, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like yours with a bit of heat. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing everything together so each bite is bursting with spice and savory goodness.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, drained kidney and pinto beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Crank up the heat until the chili starts boiling, then reduce it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce thickens just right.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

Give your chili a taste and tweak the salt and pepper as needed. Serve it piping hot in bowls topped with shredded cheddar, dollops of cool sour cream, and freshly chopped green onions for that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and fresh.

How to Serve Classic Chili Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing is your chance to play chef and add that extra pop! Classic options like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and scallions provide creamy, tangy, and crisp notes that beautifully complement the spicy chili. You can also try diced avocado, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a lively twist.

Side Dishes

This chili shines alongside cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips – perfect for scooping up every last bit. A simple green salad or steamed veggies also pair nicely if you want to add some freshness and greenery to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your chili over baked potatoes or rice to turn it into a loaded, satisfying bowl. Or try chili cheese fries: pile fries high, ladle chili over, and blanket with melted cheese—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your fresh batch of chili, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or snacks during the week.

Freezing

This Classic Chili Recipe freezes beautifully! Just place cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty Ziploc bags, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a fantastic way to prep meals ahead or save extra portions for busy days.

Reheating

To warm up your leftovers, choose either the stovetop or microwave. On the stove, simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If using a microwave, cover to prevent splatters and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. Add a splash of beef broth if it seems too thick.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chili Recipe is a timeless, soul-satisfying dish that brings people together with its warmth and flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend comfort meal, I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try — it might just become a beloved favorite in your home too!

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