Ultimate Beef Chili

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When the weather calls for cozy, nothing satisfies quite like a hearty bowl of Ultimate Beef Chili. This rich and flavorful dish blends bold spices, tender beef, and a medley of beans into one comforting, one-pot meal. It’s a dinner that warms from the inside out, whether you’re prepping for game day or seeking a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner.

What sets this chili apart is its perfect balance of textures and deep, smoky flavor that develops as it simmers low and slow. It’s easily customizable for heat and sweetness, and it welcomes toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or even a cornbread crumble. Whether ladled over rice or served solo with a hunk of crusty bread, this chili delivers every single time.

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What Kind of Beef Should I Use for Chili?

Ground beef is classic, and a mix of 80/20 (lean to fat ratio) works wonders for richness without being too greasy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try blending ground chuck with ground sirloin for layered flavor. Prefer chunks? Cubed chuck roast also adds a hearty stew-like feel but needs more simmering time.

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Ingredients for the Ultimate Beef Chili

Ground Beef: The star of the show, providing the hearty base and meaty richness.

Kidney Beans & Black Beans: A duo that brings creaminess and earthy flavor. Rinse and drain for the perfect texture.

Crushed Tomatoes & Tomato Paste: These create the saucy backbone. The paste intensifies the tomato flavor.

Onion & Garlic: The aromatics that kickstart the flavor. Don’t skimp on them.

Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and color contrast.

Beef Broth: To loosen and deepen the chili with a savory touch.

Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Oregano: This spice blend brings the smoky, warm, and robust chili profile.

Salt & Pepper: Always essential for rounding out the flavors.

Olive Oil: Just enough to sauté your aromatics and beef to perfection.

Optional: Jalapeño or Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: For a spicier kick and smoky depth.

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How To Make the Ultimate Beef Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste and spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano). Let it cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust salt or spices. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeño slices.

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Serving and Storing This Beef Chili

Serve your chili piping hot in deep bowls with all your favorite toppings. Crusty bread or cornbread make excellent companions. Got leftovers? Even better. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Chili flavors deepen beautifully overnight.

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What to Serve With Ultimate Beef Chili?

Cornbread

Sweet or savory, it’s the classic partner.

Baked Potatoes

Top a fluffy potato with chili for a loaded dinner.

Tortilla Chips

Crunchy and perfect for scooping every bite.

Rice

A base that turns your chili into a full-on chili bowl.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Because gooey cheese and chili are a dream combo.

Pickled Jalapeños

To add contrast and a vinegary zing.

Sour Cream and Shredded Cheese

The ultimate creamy, cool toppings.

Side Salad

Something crisp to lighten up the meal.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Ultimate Beef Chili, you’ll definitely want to try these savory, satisfying meals next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe: Rich, comforting pasta.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta: A 30-minute dinner hero.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce: Cheesesteak meets pasta bliss.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta: Beefy, cheesy comfort in a bowl.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta: Smoky, spicy, and made in one pot.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add chipotle? Serve it over rice? Crumble some cornbread on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and hearty bowls on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and discover your new weeknight go-to!

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