Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of happiness that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a hearty dinner, this easy homemade chili recipe is your ticket to flavor-packed satisfaction. It combines savory ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a medley of spices to create a dish that’ll have you returning for seconds. In no time, you’ll find yourself mastering this simple yet delicious recipe that can easily become a staple in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Easy Homemade Chili
There’s something special about a bowl of homemade chili. The rich flavors and warm spices evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. You will love this easy homemade chili for its versatility—perfect for weeknight dinners, tailgating parties, or cozy get-togethers. It’s a one-pot wonder that not only feeds a crowd but also provides great leftovers for busy days. What’s more, the combination of ingredients allows for a delightful exploration of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. And did we mention it’s quick to make? Let’s dive into what makes this dish so easy and enjoyable!
Ingredients about Easy Homemade Chili
To whip up a delicious pot of easy homemade chili, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 2-2.5 cups)
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt to taste
- 1 pound lean ground beef (94% lean)
- ¼ cup chili powder (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1½ tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or Better than bouillon beef)
- 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red bell pepper, drained and chopped (1 cup)
- 1–2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips
How to Make Easy Homemade Chili Directions
Creating this easy homemade chili is simpler than you might think. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once the oil is ready, add 1 diced onion and season it with ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 3 minutes or until it starts to soften.
Next, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pot, along with another ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks, allowing it to brown for approximately 4 minutes until it’s nearly cooked through.
After browning the beef, it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in ¼ cup of chili powder, 1½ tablespoons of dried oregano, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir everything together well and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the spices infuse their aroma.
Now, bring in the tomatoes. Pour in 2 cans of fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, then add 2 cups of beef broth, 1 jar of diced roasted red bell peppers, and 1–2 cans of diced green chiles. Stir the mixture thoroughly and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
Finally, add in the 2 cans of drained kidney beans, stirring to combine. Allow the chili to come back to a gentle simmer and cook for another 5 minutes. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt to your liking.
Serve it up hot, and if you wish, garnish each bowl with sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Chili
Serving your easy homemade chili can be just as creative and enjoyable as making it. Start by ladling the warm chili into bowls, allowing each guest to customize their dish with an array of toppings. Popular choices include a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a handful of fresh cilantro to brighten the flavors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch. You can also pair your chili with warm crusty bread or cornbread on the side for dipping.
For gatherings or game days, consider serving your chili in a large slow cooker, keeping it warm throughout the event. This makes it easy for you and your guests to serve themselves, and it’s a perfect solution when entertaining! No matter how you decide to serve it, one thing is for certain—your easy homemade chili will be the star of the table.
Expert Tips: Easy Homemade Chili
Achieving the perfect chili can sometimes come down to a few expert tips that elevate the dish even further. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Customize the Heat: If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper. Diced jalapeños can also be added for a fresher, spicier flavor.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and broth. They can significantly influence the final taste of your chili.
- Simmer Longer for Enhanced Flavor: If time allows, let your chili simmer longer—up to an hour—on low heat. This gives flavors a chance to meld and develop further.
- Rotate Your Beans: While kidney beans are classic, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for variation and texture.
- Make Ahead: Chili is ideal for meal prep! Make a double batch and store half for busy nights. The flavors only get better after a day in the fridge.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs, salty cheese, and crunchy elements all work together to create a balanced flavor profile. Experiment with different garnishes until you find your favorite combination.
How to Store Easy Homemade Chili
Storing your easy homemade chili properly is essential for maintaining its freshness and flavor. Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. You can store your chili in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you’re looking to keep it for longer, chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Variation of Easy Homemade Chili
One of the greatest aspects of chili is its versatility. You can easily customize this easy homemade chili to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Chili: Simply replace the ground beef with an assortment of beans and vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Turkey Chili: Substitute lean ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. It cooks similarly but may require a bit more seasoning to enhance flavor.
- White Chicken Chili: For a creamy twist, replace beef with shredded cooked chicken. Use white beans and add a can of cream of chicken soup for richness.
- Smoky Chili: Incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor. It works particularly well with beef chili.
- Sweet Chili: Try adding a bit of diced sweet potatoes or corn for natural sweetness, creating a delightful balance to the spice.
Each of these variations will provide a new flavor experience while still keeping the essence of a comforting chili dish.
FAQ
What makes this easy homemade chili recipe quick?
This recipe utilizes simple, easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, allowing you to prepare a delicious chili in less than 40 minutes.
Can I make this easy homemade chili in advance?
Absolutely! You can make this chili ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld beautifully when stored overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Can I freeze easy homemade chili?
Yes, chili freezes well! Just allow it to cool, then transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags and store it for up to 3 months.
How can I adjust the spice level in the chili?
You can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh peppers. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder.
What toppings go well with easy homemade chili?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and crunchy tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your toppings to enhance the dish!
This easy homemade chili is a perfect go-to recipe that you can adapt and enjoy countless times. The warmth it brings, both in flavor and comfort, makes it a beloved choice in any home. With straightforward steps and delightful variations, you’ll be able to enjoy it in a multitude of ways for any occasion!
Easy Homemade Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 2-2.5 cups)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste Kosher salt
- 1 pound lean ground beef (94% lean)
- ¼ cup chili powder adjust based on your spice preference
- 1½ tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 cans (14.5-ounce) fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or Better than bouillon beef)
- 1 jar (12-ounce) roasted red bell pepper, drained and chopped (1 cup)
- 1-2 cans (4-ounce) diced green chiles
- 2 cans (15-ounce) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Optional Toppings
- sour cream for garnish
- shredded cheese for garnish
- fresh cilantro for garnish
- tortilla chips for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add 1 diced onion and season it with ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 3 minutes or until it starts to soften.
- Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pot along with another ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks, allowing it to brown for approximately 4 minutes until it’s nearly cooked through.
- Sprinkle in ¼ cup of chili powder, 1½ tablespoons of dried oregano, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking
- Pour in 2 cans of fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, add 2 cups of beef broth, 1 jar of diced roasted red bell peppers, and 1–2 cans of diced green chiles. Stir thoroughly and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add in the 2 cans of drained kidney beans, stirring to combine and allow the chili to return to a gentle simmer and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and season with salt to your liking.
Serving
- Ladle the warm chili into bowls and allow each guest to customize their dish with an array of toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- For gatherings, consider serving chili in a large slow cooker to keep warm.
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