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–+ servings
A bowl of classic beef and bean chili topped with fresh herbs and spices.

Classic Beef and Bean Chili

A warm and hearty classic chili made with ground beef, beans, and a vibrant blend of spices. Perfect for cozy nights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 whole bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh, diced tomatoes)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Toppings
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Avocado slices
  • Corn chips or tortilla strips

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add the ground beef and brown it in the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  5. Once the beef is no longer pink, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Pour in the canned tomatoes and kidney beans, scraping the bottom of the pot for flavor.
  7. Add beef broth and stir until well combined.
  8. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
  9. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  10. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired. For a thicker chili, simmer for an additional 15 minutes with the lid off.
Serving
  1. Ladle chili into bowls and offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g

Notes

Customize your chili by swapping ground beef for turkey, adding jalapeños for heat, or incorporating more vegetables. This dish can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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