Chili is the epitome of comfort food, providing warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for chilly nights, game days, or even a casual dinner, this Homemade Chili recipe combines tender meat (or beans for a vegetarian version), a rich tomato base, and a variety of spices that come together to create the perfect bowl of chili. It’s easy to make and great for feeding a crowd, or you can store leftovers for a quick meal later in the week.

With just the right balance of spice and savory goodness, this chili recipe can be made on the stove top or in a slow cooker. It's versatile, filling, and so comforting. Let's dive into how to make this classic dish!

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📝 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements)

For the Chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese)
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients:

• Chop the onion and garlic. Drain and rinse the kidney and black beans. Set aside.

2. Cook the meat:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).
• Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Add the tomatoes and beans:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix well, making sure the tomato paste is fully incorporated.
• Add the kidney beans and black beans. Stir to combine.

4. Season the chili:

• Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Simmer the chili:

• Lower the heat and let the chili simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken.

6. Taste and adjust:

• After 30 minutes, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more chili powder for heat or more cumin for a deeper flavor.

7. Serve and garnish:

• Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side for a complete meal.

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🍽 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – serves 6)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 23 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 650 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

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💡 Tips & Tricks

• Make it spicier: If you like your chili extra spicy, add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even some diced jalapeños. You can also use hot sauce to give it an additional kick.
• Vegetarian version: To make this chili vegetarian, simply substitute the ground beef with more beans (like pinto beans or chickpeas) or use a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for more texture and flavor.
• Slow cooker version: To make this chili in the slow cooker, follow the same steps for browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Freeze for later: Chili freezes wonderfully! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Toppings: For an added crunch, top the chili with crushed tortilla chips, or make homemade cornbread for a perfect side to scoop up the chili.

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🍽 From Me to You: My Extra Touch ✨

One of my favorite ways to enjoy chili is by adding a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese right before serving. For a little extra kick, I sometimes drizzle a tiny bit of hot sauce or add some diced jalapeños on top. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy!