This quick Beef Chili Recipe with beans and ground beef is a true game-changer, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t have to take all day. In just 30 minutes, you can create a hearty, comforting meal that tastes as if it’s been simmering for hours. Made with perfectly seasoned ground beef and wholesome beans, this chili offers a delicious, mild flavor that’s perfect for the whole family.
If you’re a fan of satisfying soups and robust chili dishes, you’ll also adore our White Chicken Chili, a vibrant Southwest Turkey Soup, or the comforting classic Beef and Barley Soup. Each offers a unique twist on wholesome, home-cooked goodness.
Whip Up the Ultimate Easy Beef Chili with Beans
Crafting a deeply satisfying beef chili doesn’t have to be a marathon in the kitchen. This recipe simplifies the process without compromising on taste, allowing you to achieve that slow-cooked depth in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner, hosting a lively gathering, or simply craving a hearty bowl of comfort, this quick and easy chili is designed to impress and delight.
We’ll guide you step-by-step through creating a mouthwatering beef chili that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation. The blend of savory ground beef, robust beans, and a carefully balanced spice profile delivers an unforgettable experience. Looking for the perfect accompaniments? This chili pairs beautifully with our fluffy Cornbread or classic Cornbread Muffins. For a surprisingly delightful sweet and savory combination, try serving it alongside our tender Homemade Cinnamon Rolls – a truly classic pairing that never gets old and always brings smiles to the dinner table. This versatile dish is perfect for any occasion, offering warmth and flavor in every spoonful.
Watch How to Make Our Easy Beef Chili (Video Guide)
See just how simple it is to bring this flavorful beef chili to life! Our comprehensive video tutorial walks you through each step, from browning the beef to simmering the spices, ensuring your chili turns out perfect every time. Follow along and discover the secrets to creating a rich and hearty meal in under an hour.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Homemade Chili
Creating a truly memorable beef chili starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a closer look at the core components that give this recipe its signature flavor and texture:
- Beans: The Hearty Foundation
While preparing dry beans from scratch offers a wonderful depth, for a quick and convenient chili, canned beans are your best friend. They significantly cut down on prep and cooking time without sacrificing flavor or texture. The beauty of chili lies in its versatility, so feel free to mix and match your favorite varieties. For this recipe, we recommend a blend of black beans and kidney beans for a rich and varied texture, but pinto beans, garbanzo beans, or even red beans would also work beautifully. A crucial tip: resist the urge to rinse your canned beans! The starchy liquid they’re packed in adds a natural thickness and an extra layer of flavor to your chili, contributing to that desirable “cooked all day” taste. - Tomato Base: The Flavorful Backbone
Our chili’s robust tomato base comes from a generous can of crushed tomatoes and a small can of concentrated tomato paste. This combination creates a rich, complex foundation that’s present without being overwhelming. The crushed tomatoes provide a delightful textural variation, adding small, tender pieces of tomato throughout the chili. Meanwhile, the tomato paste works wonders in deepening the overall umami and richness, giving the chili that signature savory tang we all love. It’s a mild tomato flavor that beautifully complements the other ingredients, rather than dominating them. - Ground Beef: The Savory Star
Ground beef is the heart of this chili, providing a satisfying chew and rich, meaty flavor. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to use your preferred fat content. We often opt for 85/15 ground beef, meaning it’s 85% lean meat and 15% fat. This ratio strikes a perfect balance, ensuring the beef remains juicy and tender as it simmers, without making the chili overly greasy. Higher fat content will yield a juicier result, while leaner options will be lighter. We love the hearty texture that the chunks of ground beef add, making each spoonful substantial and satisfying. - Aromatics: The Flavor Builders
No great chili is complete without a solid aromatic base. Diced yellow onions, sautéed until wonderfully caramelized, lay down a sweet and savory foundation. Minced garlic, added just after the onions, brings its pungent, aromatic magic, infusing the entire dish with irresistible depth. These two simple ingredients are crucial for building the complex flavor profile that makes this chili so delicious. - Spices: The Soul of the Chili
The carefully selected blend of spices is what truly brings this chili to life. Chili powder provides the classic chili flavor, a warm and earthy blend that’s iconic to the dish. Cumin adds a distinctive, smoky, and slightly nutty aroma, while a hint of cayenne pepper introduces a gentle warmth and subtle kick. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, balancing and enhancing all the other flavors. This combination results in a mild yet deeply flavorful chili, perfect for those who enjoy a comforting warmth without excessive heat. Feel free to adjust the cayenne if you prefer a spicier or milder profile.
Recommended Kitchen Tools for Chili Perfection
Having the right tools can make your chili-making experience even more enjoyable and efficient. These are some of our favorites:
- Large Cast Iron Dutch Oven: This is our go-to for cooking chili. A high-quality Dutch oven provides incredibly even heat distribution, ensuring your ingredients cook consistently and develop deep flavors. Its sturdy construction means it can go from stovetop to table beautifully, and it’s surprisingly easy to clean, making it a valuable investment for any kitchen.
- Sturdy Ladle: A good ladle with a comfortable handle is essential for serving up generous portions of your delicious chili.
- Classic White Bowls: Simple, classic bowls beautifully showcase the vibrant colors and hearty texture of homemade chili, making every serving feel special.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Leftover Beef Chili
One of the best things about making a big batch of chili is the delicious leftovers! Our beef chili tastes even better the next day, and it’s incredibly versatile. Don’t let a single spoonful go to waste with these creative and satisfying ideas:
- Jalupies: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic: This quirky name refers to one of our favorite childhood meals – a budget-friendly and incredibly versatile dish perfect for feeding a crowd! Start with a generous base of crispy Frito’s tortilla chips, then add a big scoop of warm chili. Top it off with a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a spoonful of fresh salsa, and some crisp shredded lettuce. It’s a flavor and texture explosion in every bite!
- Hearty Chili Nachos: Transform your leftovers into an epic snack or appetizer. Spread a single layer of tortilla chips across a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of leftover chili over the chips and cover with plenty of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend work great). Bake until the cheese is bubbly and melted, then top with sour cream, sliced black olives, and a dollop of your favorite salsa.
- Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Elevate a simple baked potato into a full meal. Slice a perfectly baked potato in half, fluff the flesh, and then generously fill it with warm leftover chili. Finish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a truly comforting and satisfying dish.
- Chili Mac and Cheese Fusion: Combine two ultimate comfort foods into one irresistible meal. Simply mix your leftover chili with a batch of freshly cooked macaroni and cheese. This creates a rich, creamy, and meaty dish that’s incredibly hearty and packed with flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A healthy and delicious way to use up chili. Cut the tops off bell peppers (any color works!), remove the seeds and membranes. Fill each pepper cavity with your leftover chili, top with a sprinkle of cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden. For extra depth, you can lightly pre-bake the peppers before filling.
- Chili Cheese Quesadillas: A quick and easy way to turn chili into a cheesy delight. Spread a thin layer of chili and a generous amount of shredded cheese between two tortillas. Cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is beautifully melted. Serve these savory quesadillas with sour cream and salsa, much like our popular Chicken Quesadillas.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Beef Chili Ever
Achieve chili perfection every time with these valuable insights and adjustments:
- Embrace Canned Beans for Speed: For maximum convenience and a truly quick meal, utilizing canned beans is highly recommended. If you have the time and desire for a more traditional approach, preparing dry beans from scratch offers a unique depth of flavor. You can follow our detailed guide on how to cook pinto beans from dried.
- Do Not Drain Canned Beans: This is a critical tip for achieving a rich, thick chili. The starchy liquid in canned beans acts as a natural thickening agent and contributes significantly to the overall flavor and mouthfeel of the chili, mimicking the complexity of a slow-simmered dish.
- Tomato Versatility: Whether you opt for commercially canned crushed tomatoes or your own home-canned variety, the quality of your tomato base is key. Home-canned tomatoes, in particular, often yield an incredibly fresh and vibrant chili sauce. The convenience of having these staple ingredients on hand makes this a go-to recipe for any occasion.
- Adjust Beef Quantity and Type: This recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of ground beef, which provides a wonderfully hearty consistency. However, you can easily adjust this amount to your preference – increase it for a meatier chili or decrease it for a more bean-forward dish. For a lighter option, ground turkey can be substituted for the beef, offering a delicious alternative without compromising on texture or flavor.
- A Fantastic Freezer Meal: Chili is an ideal make-ahead meal that freezes exceptionally well. Prepare a large batch and store cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. It thaws beautifully in the refrigerator overnight, making weeknight dinners effortless.
- Customize Your Toppings: Serving chili is an art in itself! Offer a variety of toppings to allow everyone to customize their bowl. Classic choices include a dollop of cool sour cream, vibrant salsa, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Other popular additions include chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled), hot sauce, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
- Enhance Flavor with Simmer Time: While this recipe is designed for speed, allowing the chili to simmer on low heat for an extra 10-15 minutes (or even longer if you have the time) will allow the flavors to meld and deepen further, resulting in an even richer and more complex taste.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your chili towards the end of the cooking process. Spices can vary in potency, and personal preferences differ. Adjust the salt, pepper, and cayenne as needed to achieve your desired balance of flavor and heat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Beef Chili
For homemade chili, ground beef is an excellent choice, offering both convenience and rich flavor. Opting for a lower fat blend, such as 85/15 or even 88/12, works wonderfully. These ratios ensure the beef remains tender and moist while delivering a significant depth of flavor to your chili. Avoid overly lean ground beef, which can sometimes result in a drier texture. The moderate fat content contributes to the chili’s overall richness and mouthfeel.
Absolutely, browning the ground beef before adding it to the chili is a crucial step that significantly enhances the depth of flavor. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, caramelizes the meat, creating savory, complex notes that would otherwise be missing. It also helps to render some of the fat, which can then be drained if desired, leading to a more balanced chili. Always brown your beef for the best possible flavor!
To reduce the heat level in your chili, there are several effective strategies. You can start by using a mild chili powder or simply reducing the overall amount of chili powder. Additionally, omitting or reducing the amount of cayenne pepper will significantly cut down on spiciness. If your chili is already made and too spicy, a dollop of cool sour cream, a spoonful of yogurt, or even a splash of milk or cream when serving can help to mellow the heat. Adding a bit of sugar or diced bell peppers can also balance out the intensity.
Yes, chili is perfectly suited for a slow cooker! To achieve the best flavor, we recommend browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. Once those foundational flavors are built, add all the remaining ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on a low setting for 6-8 hours or on a high setting for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to slowly meld and deepen for an exceptionally rich and tender chili.
If your beef chili turns out thinner than desired, there are a few easy ways to thicken it. A common method is to create a cornstarch slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of cold water, then stirring it into the simmering chili and cooking for a few more minutes until thickened. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to release their starches, or stir in a can of refried beans for an immediate thickening effect and added flavor. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree a small portion of the chili directly in the pot.
Absolutely! Beef chili is one of those dishes that often tastes even better the day after it’s made, as the flavors have more time to fully develop and meld together. Prepare your chili as directed, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, chili freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Storing and Reheating Your Hearty Beef Chili
Proper storage ensures your delicious chili remains fresh and ready to enjoy, while simple reheating methods bring it back to perfect temperature.
- Refrigerator Storage: Once your chili has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors will often deepen even further.
- Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, chili is an excellent candidate for freezing. Store cooled chili in freezer-safe bags or another sturdy airtight container for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: For larger portions, transfer the chili to a pot and heat over medium-low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is thoroughly warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
- Microwave: For individual servings, simply place your chili in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
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Quick Beef Chili Recipe
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Ingredients
(Unit System: US Customary)
- 3 cups yellow onions, diced
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1½ pounds ground beef, 85/15
- 3 15.25-ounce cans beans (black, kidney, red, or pinto), do not drain
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 4 ounces tomato paste
- 4 ounces green chilis, do not drain
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, add the avocado oil and heat over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onions and cook until the onions begin to caramelize—about 5-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking over medium heat until there is only a little pink left. Pour 3 cans of beans along with their sauces into the hamburger mixture and add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, green chilis, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and bring to a simmer, letting the chili cook on medium low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and serve with chili toppings like sour cream and shredded cheese. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Reheating: either microwave a small portion or transfer to a pot over medium heat and cook until warm.
Nutrition
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
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More Comforting Soup and Chili Recipes to Explore
If you love the warmth and satisfaction of a good bowl of chili, you’re sure to enjoy these other hearty and flavorful soup recipes from our kitchen. Perfect for any season, they offer a comforting meal option for your family and friends.
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- Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Zesty Turkey Enchilada Soup
- Rich and Hearty Corn Chowder
- Comforting Turkey and Rice Soup
- Flavorful Roasted Tomato Soup
- Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheese Soup
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This easy beef chili recipe is truly a family favorite, crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver maximum flavor in minimal time. In just 30 minutes, you can create a robust and satisfying meal that tastes like it’s been slow-simmering all day. Its blend of perfectly seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and a flavorful yet mild spice profile makes it a universally loved dish. Prepare a batch today and experience the comforting taste of homemade chili that the entire family will adore!