DINNER

Ground Beef Chili: 5 Hearty Steps to Comfort

by basmer

23 de February de 2026

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Ground Beef Chili is a comforting one-pot meal that warms the soul. Made with hearty beans, vibrant peppers, and sweet potatoes, this dish is simmered with a medley of spices until it’s rich and cozy. Perfect for chilly evenings, this homemade beef chili delivers not just flavor but also the comfort of home cooking. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Chili

There are countless reasons to adore this ground beef chili. Firstly, it’s a complete meal packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any dinner table. Secondly, it’s adaptable; you can easily swap ingredients to create your own twist on this classic. Whether you’re looking for a spicy beef chili or a milder version, this recipe can accommodate your taste preferences. Moreover, it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Lastly, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. This dish truly exemplifies the best beef chili for winter.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Chili

Gather these items:

1 pound ground beef (93% lean)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 large yellow onion (chopped, about 2 cups)
2 green bell peppers (chopped, about 2 cups)
1 red bell pepper (chopped, about 1 cup)
1 medium sweet potato (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice)
4 cloves garlic (minced, about 4 teaspoons)
1 ½ tablespoons ground chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 (14-ounce) cans low-sodium beef broth
2 (15-ounce) cans fire roasted diced tomatoes (in their juices)
1 (15-ounce) can reduced sodium dark or light red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
1 (15-ounce) can reduced sodium black beans (rinsed and drained)
½ teaspoon granulated sugar
Toppings of choice: sliced avocado, plain nonfat Greek yogurt, crushed tortilla chips, lime wedges, shredded cheese such as Monterey jack, cheddar, or crumbled queso fresco

How to Make Ground Beef Chili Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat a large Dutch oven or similar sturdy pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef, salt, and pepper. Brown the meat, breaking it apart into small pieces and stirring occasionally until it is fully cooked through, about 5 minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. Lightly pat dry and set aside.
Step 2: Reduce heat to medium and add the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onion, green and red bell pepper, and sweet potato. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are softened and turning golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, chipotle chili powder, oregano, cayenne, and cinnamon. Cook until very fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let simmer for 3 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, black beans, and reserved ground beef.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low and partially cover the pot. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the chili is thickened and tantalizingly fragrant, about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve hot, with all of your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Chili

Keep these in mind:

Use 93% lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and health.
Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition.
A splash of vinegar can enhance the flavor profile of your chili.
Cook low and slow for the best flavor development, as mentioned in the stovetop method.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Chili

There are several delightful ways to serve your ground beef chili. For a hearty meal, pair it with warm cornbread or over rice. You can also serve it in bowls topped with cheese, avocado, and a dollop of plain nonfat Greek yogurt. For a fun twist, use it as a filling for burritos or tacos. This dish is also great as a ground beef chili topped with cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Chili

To store your ground beef chili, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for ground beef chili for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Chili

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Chili?

The secret lies in the spices and cooking time. Use fresh spices and allow the chili to simmer long enough for flavors to meld. For a richer taste, opt for fire-roasted tomatoes.

Can I make Ground Beef Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavor as it sits. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Chili?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you brown the beef properly and don’t skip the simmering step. This allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a delicious chili.

Variations of Ground Beef Chili You Can Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations: try adding quinoa for a hearty twist, or use turkey for a lighter option. For those preferring a vegetarian alternative to ground beef chili, substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms, which provide a satisfying texture. Additionally, you can create a slow cooker ground beef chili version by following the same steps and allowing it to cook on low for several hours.

For more delicious recipes, check out this stovetop ground beef chili recipe or slow cooker Korean beef. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, loaded mashed potato balls make a great side dish!