Best Chili Recipe with Ground Beef and Beans

If you are looking for good chili recipes with ground beef, you have come to the right place. This easy homemade chili recipe is a family favorite and always brings everyone to the table. I remember one chilly evening when my son Jake asked if we could have chili for dinner. I couldn't say no, especially when he added that chili is his favorite meal. This chili beans recipe is hearty, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love It

  • It’s packed with flavor and spices that warm you up.
  • You can easily customize it to suit your family’s taste.
  • It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.

Pure Comfort

Nothing says comfort food like a warm bowl of chili. The combination of ground beef and beans creates a satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, making it a perfect meal prep option.

What You Need

  • 1 lb ground beef – use lean for less grease
  • 1 onion – chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic – minced
  • 1 bell pepper – chopped
  • 28 oz canned diced tomatoes – with juice
  • 15 oz canned kidney beans – drained and rinsed
  • 15 oz canned black beans – drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp chili powder – adjust for spice level
  • 1 tsp cumin – for flavor depth
  • 1 tsp salt – to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper – to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
  • 1 cup water or beef broth – for desired consistency

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Difficulty: easy | Make-Ahead: yes

Steps to Make It

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
  5. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, stirring well.
  6. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans, and black beans.
  7. Add the water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
  8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Make It Perfect

  • For extra flavor, let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before serving.
  • Serve with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal.
  • Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added goodness.

Mix It Up

  • Try adding corn for a sweet crunch.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Make it vegetarian by using lentils instead of meat.

Perfect Partners

  • Serve with warm cornbread or tortilla chips.
  • Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

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FAQs

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, it freezes well. Just cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

How long will leftovers last?

In the fridge, leftovers can last up to 4 days.

Conclusion

This best chili recipe with ground beef and beans is sure to become a staple in your home. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Give this chili beans recipe a try, and I promise it will bring smiles to your dinner table.

Close-up of a bowl of chili with ground beef and beans.

Best Chili Recipe with Ground Beef and Beans

This easy homemade chili recipe with ground beef and beans is a family favorite. Hearty and flavorful, it’s perfect for any occasion and great for leftovers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pound ground beef use lean for less grease
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper chopped
  • 28 oz can canned diced tomatoes with juice
  • 15 oz can canned kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 15 oz can canned black beans drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp tablespoon chili powder adjust for spice level
  • 1 tsp teaspoon cumin for flavor depth
  • 1 tsp teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp teaspoon black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 cup water or beef broth for desired consistency

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
  • Mix in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, stirring well.
  • Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans, and black beans.
  • Add the water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Keyword beans, Beef, Chili, Comfort Food, easy, homemade