A big, bold batch of homemade chili packed with hearty ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices! Perfect for feeding a crowd, game day gatherings, or freezing for meal prep. Cozy, comforting, and delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional – balances acidity)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Aromatics & Veggies
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Spice It Up
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices for 1–2 minutes to bring out flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
- Add the beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and brown sugar (if using). Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor!
Step 5: Taste & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
- Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, or tortilla chips!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10–12
Calories: ~350 per serving
Perfect for leftovers and even better the next day, this HUGE POT of Chili will be your go-to comfort food favorite.