The Best Chili Recipe

The Best Homemade Chili Recipe Everyone Will Love

Crafting the best chili recipe becomes an art form that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, soul-warming dish.

Passionate home cooks know comfort lies in a pot simmering with rich, complex flavors.

Bold spices dance together, creating a symphony of taste that captures the essence of home cooking.

Your kitchen will soon fill with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.

Each carefully selected ingredient tells a story of tradition and culinary creativity.

Memories of cozy evenings and shared meals emerge with every spoonful of this spectacular chili.

Prepare to embark on a delicious journey that will become your new favorite recipe.

The Best Chili Recipe to Savor and Enjoy

  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adapt this chili with optional ingredients like jalapenos, corn, or dark chocolate, making it a flexible recipe that suits different taste preferences.
  • Quick and Hearty Meal: Prepare a satisfying, protein-packed dish that comes together in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Packed with rich spices and layers of savory ingredients, this chili offers a robust taste profile that will impress family and friends at gatherings or potlucks.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and straightforward cooking technique make this recipe a stress-free option for home cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced chefs.

Key Ingredients for The Best Chili

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides rich flavor and substantial texture to the chili.
Aromatics and Vegetables:
  • Onions, Garlic, Bell Peppers: These ingredients create a robust and flavorful base for the chili.
  • Jalapenos, Corn (Optional): Adds extra heat and sweetness to the dish.
Liquid and Tomato Base:
  • Tomato Paste, Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, Beef Broth: Creates a thick, savory sauce that binds all ingredients together.
Beans:
  • Kidney Beans: Provides protein, texture, and traditional chili character.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Oregano, Sugar, Salt, Pepper: Delivers complex, balanced flavor profile to the chili.
Unique Flavor Enhancer:
  • Dark Chocolate: Adds depth and richness to the overall taste.
Finishing and Garnish Ingredients:
  • Lime Juice: Brightens and balances the flavors.
  • Cilantro, Cheese, Sour Cream, Green Onions: Provides fresh, creamy, and zesty toppings.
Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil: Helps sauté vegetables and prevents sticking.

How to Cook The Best Chili Easily

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium flame.

Toss in chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their sweet, mellow flavor.

Step 2: Build Flavor Layers

Add minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the pot.

Sauté until the vegetables soften and become slightly golden, creating a rich foundation for the chili.

Step 3: Brown the Protein

Introduce ground beef to the pot, breaking it into small crumbles.

Cook until the meat turns a deep brown and develops a delicious caramelized exterior.

Drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean and clean.

Step 4: Create Liquid Foundation

Stir in:
  • Tomato paste
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato sauce
  • Beef broth

Blend the ingredients thoroughly, creating a robust and hearty liquid base for the chili.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Add these flavor enhancers:
  • Kidney beans
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Paprika
  • Oregano
  • Sugar
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Mix everything together, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Slow Simmer

Bring the chili to a gentle simmer.

Reduce heat to low and let it bubble softly for 30-45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.

Step 7: Optional Flavor Boosters

For adventurous cooks, stir in:
  • Jalapeños
  • Corn
  • Dark chocolate

These ingredients add unexpected depth and complexity to the chili.

Step 8: Final Touches

Brighten the dish with a splash of lime juice.

When serving, top with:
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped green onions

Enjoy your spectacular homemade chili!

Pro Tips for Rich and Flavorful Chili

  • Remove as much grease as possible after browning beef to prevent a greasy, heavy chili texture.
  • Add chili powder and cumin gradually, tasting between additions to build complex, balanced flavors without overwhelming heat.
  • Let chili cook on low heat for at least 30 minutes, allowing ingredients to meld and develop deep, rich flavors.
  • Dark chocolate adds unexpected depth and complexity, enhancing the overall savory profile without making the dish taste sweet.
  • Squeeze fresh lime juice just before serving to cut through richness and add a vibrant, zesty finish to the chili.

Variations to Elevate Your Chili

  • Vegetarian Chili Swap: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meat-free protein-packed alternative.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Transfer ingredients after browning onions and meat into a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours for deeper flavor development.
  • Low-Carb Chili Bowl: Eliminate beans and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly version that maintains rich taste.
  • Turkey Lean Chili: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter, lower-fat protein option that still delivers robust chili flavor.

Serving Ideas for The Best Chili

  • Cozy Comfort Bowl: Serve the chili in deep ceramic bowls that keep the meal warm, perfect for chilly evenings and hearty appetites.
  • Loaded Chili Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a large platter, top with the hot chili, sprinkle generous amounts of shredded cheese, and add fresh jalapeños for extra crunch and heat.
  • Chili Cornbread Companion: Pair the chili with warm, freshly baked cornbread on the side, allowing guests to crumble or dunk the bread into the rich, spicy mixture for a classic southwestern-style meal.
  • Toppings Galore Station: Create a fun DIY topping bar with chopped green onions, shredded cheddar, sour cream, diced avocados, and crispy tortilla strips.

Storage Tips for Chili

  • Transfer chili to an airtight container and seal tightly. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, keeping flavors intact and texture consistent.
  • Cool chili completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, label with date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Place chili in microwave-safe dish, cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Pour chili into saucepan, add splash of beef broth to prevent sticking. Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot and reaching desired temperature.

FAQs

  • What are the key spices that make this chili flavorful?

Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano create a robust and complex taste profile that gives the chili its signature depth and warmth.

  • Can I make this chili spicier?

Yes, you can add jalapenos during cooking or include hot sauce to increase the heat level according to your preference.

  • Is this chili recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together, making it perfect for preparing in advance and reheating.

  • Why does the recipe include sugar and dark chocolate?

The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while dark chocolate adds a subtle richness and depth to the overall flavor of the chili.

Print
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The Best Chili Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Hearty Classic Chili emerges as a comforting masterpiece of robust flavors and spicy warmth. Meat, beans, and aromatic spices blend perfectly, promising a satisfying meal that warms souls and delights palates.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 pounds (907 grams) ground beef
  • 2 cans (15 ounces / 425 grams each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 12 jalapenos, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup (150 grams) corn kernels

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cans (14.5 ounces / 411 grams each) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ounce (28 grams) dark chocolate (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Green onions

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a spacious Dutch oven over medium-high heat, gently sautéing onions until translucent and aromatic.
  2. Incorporate minced garlic and diced bell peppers, allowing them to soften and release their vibrant flavors for approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Introduce ground beef to the pot, breaking it into crumbly pieces and browning thoroughly until no pink remains. Carefully drain accumulated fat.
  4. Blend tomato paste, diced tomatoes, rich tomato sauce, and robust beef broth into the meat mixture, creating a harmonious base.
  5. Fold in kidney beans and a symphony of spices – chili powder, earthy cumin, smoky paprika, dried oregano, hint of sugar, and seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Allow the chili to reach a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let the flavors meld and intensify for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. For adventurous palates, enhance complexity by stirring in sliced jalapeños, sweet corn kernels, and a surprising hint of dark chocolate.
  8. Moments before serving, brighten the dish with a splash of fresh lime juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, dollop of sour cream, and sprinkled green onions.

Notes

  • Use high-quality ground beef with at least 80% lean meat for richer flavor and better texture.
  • Let the chili simmer longer than 30 minutes to develop deeper, more complex flavors and allow spices to meld together.
  • Dark chocolate adds depth and subtle richness without making the chili sweet, enhancing the overall umami profile.
  • Consider using dried beans instead of canned for more control over texture and sodium content, soaking them overnight before cooking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 325 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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