Hearty Chili with Ground Beef and Beans in a Rich Tomato Sauce
When you’re craving a comforting, filling, and flavor-packed meal, nothing beats a Hearty Chili with Ground Beef and Beans. This classic chili recipe is made with seasoned ground beef, tender kidney beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce simmered slowly to develop deep, satisfying flavor.
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, cold evenings, or casual gatherings, this chili is easy to make, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Chili Recipe
- Rich, bold chili flavor
- Thick, hearty texture
- High-protein and filling
- Simple ingredients and easy steps
- Great for leftovers and freezing
This is a classic homemade chili that never goes out of style.
What Makes This Chili So Good?
The secret to great chili is layered flavor:
- Browning the beef properly
- Sautéing vegetables for sweetness
- Blooming spices in hot oil
- Simmering slowly to let flavors meld
Each step builds depth, resulting in a chili that tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients for Hearty Chili with Ground Beef and Beans
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Liquids & Fat
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large stainless steel pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Once browned, carefully drain any excess fat to keep the chili rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper to the pot.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the chili.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
Stir in:
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This allows the spices to bloom in the hot oil, releasing their full aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
As it simmers, the chili will thicken and the flavors will deepen beautifully.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on your preference.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
Tips for the Best Homemade Chili
- Add extra chili powder for more heat
- Use lean ground beef for less grease
- Longer simmer = deeper flavor
- Fire-roasted tomatoes add smokiness
- Season gradually and taste often
Delicious Chili Variations
- Add corn for sweetness
- Use black beans or pinto beans
- Add jalapeños for spice
- Add a small square of dark chocolate for depth
- Add tomato paste for extra thickness
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with:
- Cornbread or biscuits
- Rice
- Tortilla chips
- Sour cream or shredded cheese
- Fresh green salad
It’s a perfect comfort-food meal
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
Chili tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes! It’s ideal for meal prep and tastes better after resting.
Is this chili spicy?
It’s mild to medium—easy to adjust to your taste.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Just adjust seasoning as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Chili with Ground Beef and Beans in a Rich Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort meal—warm, filling, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this chili is a reliable classic you’ll come back to again and again.