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+ servings
The Coziest Chili Recipe served with cornbread and toppings

The Coziest Chili Recipe

A hearty, simple, and flavorful chili made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices. This cozy recipe is perfect for weeknights, game days, or family gatherings, and it tastes even better the next day.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American / Tex-Mex
Servings 1
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 Sharp chef’s knife
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Measuring spoons
  • 1 Measuring cups
  • 1 Can opener
  • 1 Ladle
  • 1 Airtight containers (for storage or meal prep)

Ingredients
  

1 lb lean ground beef1 medium onion, diced3 cloves garlic, minced1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes2 tbsp tomato paste2 cups beef broth2 tbsp chili powder1 tsp cumin1 tsp smoked paprika½ tsp oregano¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)1 tbsp brown sugarSalt and pepper, to tasteOlive oil, for cookingOptional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, jalapeños, avocado, tortilla chips

Instructions
 

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Let it sear for 3–4 minutes before stirring for maximum flavor. Drain excess fat if needed.Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne. Toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.Stir in tomato paste, then pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Mix well.Add kidney beans, pinto beans, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper.Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more spice for heat or lime juice for brightness.Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

    Notes

    • For vegetarian chili, skip the beef and add extra beans and vegetables.
    • For spicy chili, increase cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
    • Chili thickens as it sits. Add broth or water to loosen leftovers.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 22gFat: 12gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 9gSugar: 7gCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg
    Keyword Comfort Food Chili, Easy Chili Recipe, Family Chili Dinner, Hearty Chili, Simple Chili with Beans, The Coziest Chili Recipe, Weeknight Chili
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!