Description
This Classic Chili recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful meal, combining tender ground beef with a robust blend of spices, tomatoes, and kidney beans. Perfect for cozy dinners, this chili is topped with shredded cheddar, sour cream, and fresh scallions for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 large white onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
- 1 1/2 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained
Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced scallions
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is slightly softened and translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
- Cook Meat and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste to coat the vegetables evenly. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it loses its pink color, approximately 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Add Spices and Simmer: Add chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and drained kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the liquid reduces slightly, about 20 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced scallions for a creamy and fresh finish.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño with the onions.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
- For a thicker chili, simmer longer until desired consistency is reached.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors develop further.
- This chili freezes well for up to three months; reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Classic chili, beef chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, spicy chili, comfort food
