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A steaming bowl of classic beef chili, topped with shredded cheese, diced onions, and a sprig of cilantro. The rich, thick chili has visible chunks of seasoned beef, beans, and tomatoes, served in a rustic ceramic bowl on a wooden surface with a spoon resting on the side.

The Ultimate Classic Beef Chili Recipe

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Discover the ultimate classic beef chili recipe, a hearty and flavorful comfort food perfect for any occasion. This slow cooker chili is packed with tender ground beef, aromatic spices, and rich tomatoes, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s your go-to recipe for a satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes to 8 hours and 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if desired. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and drained kidney beans. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6-8 hours for tender flavor infusion. Alternatively, simmer on stovetop uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños.
  • Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • You can customize this chili by adding diced peppers, corn, or using ground turkey for a leaner version.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes (stovetop) or 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Dairy-Free, Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg