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classic chili is made with ground beef

Classic Chili is Made with Ground Beef for Cozy Nights

This classic chili is made with ground beef, a comforting dish perfect for chilly nights and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil Provides fat for sautéing vegetables and browning meat.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Main protein source; can be substituted with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots for a different flavor.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Offers crunch and sweetness.
  • 1 medium Poblano Pepper Brings mild heat and complexity.
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Peppers Provides a spicy kick; omit for milder chili.
For Flavor
  • 4 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor; fresh garlic is preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Concentrates flavor and thickens the chili.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Primary seasoning essential for flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika Adds smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Offers an herbaceous note.
  • 1 tablespoon Cocoa Powder Adds depth and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for chili flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Supplies citrusy notes.
  • 1 pinch Ground Cinnamon Adds warmth and depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Introduces umami.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Balances flavors.
For the Vegetables & Liquid
  • 1 can Canned Fire-Roasted Tomatoes Bring sweetness and smokiness.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Provides liquid and depth.
  • 1 cup Beer (optional) Adds richness; omit if desired.
  • 2 cans Canned Red Kidney Beans Adds bulk and texture.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Cooking Spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it into chunks. Sauté for 10-15 minutes until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
    classic chili is made with ground beef
  2. Using the same pot, add a diced yellow onion, a chopped green bell pepper, a diced poblano pepper, and a minced jalapeño. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they soften and the onion becomes translucent.
    classic chili is made with ground beef
  3. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cocoa powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Stir vigorously.
    classic chili is made with ground beef
  4. Return the browned beef to the pot and add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, one can of fire-roasted tomatoes, and 2 cups of beef broth. If desired, pour in 1 cup of beer for extra depth. Stir well.
    classic chili is made with ground beef
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
    classic chili is made with ground beef
  6. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in 2 cans of drained red kidney beans. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
    classic chili is made with ground beef

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This classic chili made with ground beef is sure to become a family favorite, offering layers of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

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