As the evening air begins to cool, there is nothing quite as inviting as a steaming bowl of homemade chili bubbling on the stove. This recipe offers a deep, savory profile and a comforting texture that makes it an ideal centerpiece for family gatherings or a quiet night at home. Whether you are prepping for a weekend football game or looking for a reliable weeknight meal, this hearty dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Recipe Details

Yields: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 lbs ground beef
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot set over medium heat.
Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they have softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook the meat while breaking it into smaller pieces until it is thoroughly browned. If there is excess grease in the pot, be sure to drain it off.
Blend in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Allow the spices to cook for 1 minute to bloom and intensify their flavors.
Mix in the tomato paste, stirring until it is fully incorporated into the meat and vegetable mixture.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat.
Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes. Stir the pot every so often as the liquid reduces and the chili thickens.
Before portioning into bowls, taste the chili and adjust the salt or pepper to your preference.

Tips for Success

If you have the time, letting the chili simmer for up to 2 hours will result in an even richer flavor profile. This is also a fantastic "make-ahead" meal, as the taste often improves after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. For those looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works beautifully as a substitute for the beef. Finally, elevate your bowl by adding a variety of toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream, or fresh green onions.