Best Chili Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners
A rich and hearty Best Chili Recipe made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices.This easy homemade chili is perfect for family dinners and meal prep.Ready in just over an hour with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 onion diced
- 1 jalapeño seeded and finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2½ tablespoons chili powder divided
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 green bell pepper seeded and diced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 1 can red kidney beans drained and rinsed (19 ounces)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices 14.5 ounces
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup non-alcoholic malt beverage or extra beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef with 1½ tablespoons chili powder.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned ground beef, onion, jalapeño, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables soften.
- Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Add the remaining chili powder, cumin, green bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, non-alcoholic malt beverage, tomato paste, and brown sugar.
- Stir everything together well and bring the Best Chili Recipe to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your preferred consistency.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with cheddar cheese, cilantro, green onions, or your favorite chili toppings.
Notes
- The brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes but can be omitted.
- This homemade chili tastes even better the next day.
- Serve with cornbread, rice, or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
- For a smokier flavor, add smoked paprika.