If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with robust flavors, you have to try this Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans Recipe. It’s a rich and satisfying dish that brings together tender ground beef, tender kidney beans, and a perfect blend of spices simmered in a luscious tomato base. This chili is not just a meal; it’s a bowl full of cozy goodness that will make any day feel a little brighter and every bite worth savoring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this chili lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in delivering depth, texture, and color to the final dish, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s both hearty and inviting.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding a subtle richness without overpowering the flavors.
- Medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and caramelized depth when cooked down.
- Green bell pepper, diced: Offers a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast to the tender beef.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The star protein providing a hearty, meaty foundation.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the chili with savory warmth and aroma.
- Chili powder (2 tablespoons): The quintessential spice blend giving chili its beloved smoky, spicy kick.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings an earthy, nutty undertone that enhances other spices.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky sweetness that deepens the chili’s complexity.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a herbal note that balances the richness.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds extra heat if you like your chili with a bit more fire.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds a thicker consistency.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): The juicy base that gives the chili its vibrant body.
- Kidney beans (1 can, 15 ounces, drained and rinsed): Provide a creamy, hearty texture that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Adds savory depth and moisture, perfect for simmering.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): Just a touch to balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
How to Make Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in your pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper, stirring occasionally until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about 4 to 5 minutes. This base layer is key to building the chili’s flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with your spoon or spatula. Cook it thoroughly until it’s beautifully browned with no pink left. This step adds a rich, meaty taste and delicious texture. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off for a leaner chili.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Now comes the aromatic magic. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and, if using, cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook everything together for about 1 minute until the spices bloom and fill your kitchen with those irresistible chili scents.
Step 4: Add Tomato and Beans
Mix in the tomato paste, coating the meat and veggies evenly. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, rinsed kidney beans, and beef broth. Add the optional teaspoon of sugar if you want a hint of sweet balance against the tangy tomatoes. Give it all a good stir to combine perfectly.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering allows the flavors to marry beautifully and the chili to thicken up into that hearty, comforting texture we all love.
How to Serve Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Top your chili with shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, fresh chopped green onions, or a handful of cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Crispy tortilla strips or sliced jalapeños also add fantastic contrast and a bit of fun crunch.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides like warm cornbread, fluffy white rice, or even a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. Each side complements the hearty nature of the chili without overshadowing it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual, crowd-pleasing meal, serve the chili in sturdy bread bowls, letting guests scoop up every bit. You can also turn it into loaded chili fries or layer it over baked potatoes for a fun twist. Whatever way you present it, this recipe shines bright every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili tastes even better the next day if you have leftovers to store. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making each meal tastier than the last.
Freezing
Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some headspace. It stays best for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy a comforting meal anytime life gets busy.
Reheating
Warm your chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it’s too thick. Or microwave individual servings, covering loosely to avoid splatters, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use different beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are classic and hearty, black beans or pinto beans work well too. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the chili to keep the flavors balanced.
Is this chili spicy?
The spice level is moderate and can be tailored to your taste. If you prefer less heat, omit the cayenne pepper altogether. For more kick, add extra chili powder or fresh chili peppers right before serving.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Use vegetable broth to keep things flavorful and hearty.
What’s the best way to thicken the chili?
Simmering uncovered for longer lets the chili reduce naturally. You can also mash a few kidney beans into the pot for extra creaminess and thickness without changing the flavor.
How long will this chili keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the chili stays fresh and delicious for about 4 days. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat to keep leftovers tasting their best.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a pot of homemade chili that warms your heart and fills your home with wonderful aromas. The Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans Recipe is one to keep close in your culinary arsenal – it’s straightforward, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any day you need a little extra comfort. Give this recipe a try soon; your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find your new favorite go-to meal.
Print
Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Hearty Beef Chili with Kidney Beans is a comforting and flavorful American classic perfect for a cozy dinner. Made with tender ground beef, fragrant spices, and hearty kidney beans, this chili simmers to a rich and thick consistency packed with deep, savory flavor. Ideal for chilly evenings or meal prepping, it offers a satisfying and nutritious meal that improves in taste even after a day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and stir well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and sugar if using. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed before serving hot.
Notes
- This chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have time to develop.
- For a thicker chili, simmer longer or mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
