The Classic Homemade Chili Recipe is more than just a meal it’s a time-honored tradition that warms hearts and brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a game night or preparing a cozy family dinner, this chili delivers bold flavors, tender beans, and satisfying warmth. With its combination of savory meat, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful spices, the Classic Homemade Chili Recipe is endlessly customizable. It’s perfect for cold nights when all you want is a hot bowl of something comforting. This Classic Homemade Chili Recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Chilly Days: Warm and hearty, chili is a natural fit for cold-weather meals.
- Family-Friendly: A flavorful dish that even picky eaters will love.
- Versatile: Adjust spice levels, swap in different beans, or change up toppings to suit your taste.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld overnight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create a rich and flavorful chili.
For the Base
- Ground beef or lamb – Use either for a meaty, satisfying foundation.
- Turkey ham – Adds a smoky undertone without overpowering the dish.
- Vegetable oil – For sautéing the meat and aromatics.
Aromatics
- 1 large onion – Diced for sweetness and depth.
- 3 garlic cloves – Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 2 bell peppers – Red and green for both sweetness and color.
Canned Ingredients
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes – These add body to the chili.
- 1 can of tomato paste – Thickens the broth and adds depth.
- 1 can of kidney beans – A chili staple for texture.
- 1 can of black beans – Adds variety and additional protein.
Spices and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chili powder – The main spice that gives chili its kick.
- 1 tablespoon cumin – Adds earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – For a smoky undertone.
- 1 teaspoon oregano – Enhances the savory flavors.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Liquids
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth – For simmering and blending the flavors.
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or plain yogurt
- Diced avocado
- Chopped cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
How to Make Chili
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat
Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef (or lamb) and turkey ham. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. - Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. - Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices. - Add the Beans and Broth
Pour in the kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Stir everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. - Simmer
Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop. - Taste and Adjust
Check for seasoning and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more broth. - Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
Cooking Tips
- Avoid Burnt Chili: Stir every 10-15 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Make It Thicker: Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Mild or Spicy?: Start with mild chili powder and offer hot sauce on the side for spice lovers.
- Extra Veggies: Sneak in diced zucchini or corn for added texture.
Helpful Tips
- Meal Prep Perfection: Chili stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking.
- Serving Ideas: Serve over rice, with cornbread, or over a baked potato for a hearty twist.
- Dietary Tweaks: Replace ground meat with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option
Notes
- Chili for a Crowd: Double the recipe for gatherings or potlucks.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the chili the day before for even better flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze Chili?
Absolutely. Freeze portions in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chili?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Storage Instructions
- In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for easy meals. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this chili, you’ll love these other comforting meals:
Conclusion
There’s nothing like a pot of homemade chili to bring warmth and comfort to your table. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether for a casual family dinner or a weekend get-together. Plus, the ability to customize it with toppings and sides makes it endlessly adaptable. With this recipe, you’ll have a reliable go-to dish that everyone will love. So grab your favorite toppings and dig in!
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Classic Homemade Chili Recipe
Description
The Classic Homemade Chili Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a time-honored tradition that warms hearts and brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a game night or preparing a cozy family dinner, this chili delivers bold flavors, tender beans, and satisfying warmth.
Ingredients
For the Base
- Ground beef or lamb – Use either for a meaty, satisfying foundation.
- Turkey ham – Adds a smoky undertone without overpowering the dish.
- Vegetable oil – For sautéing the meat and aromatics.
Aromatics
- 1 large onion – Diced for sweetness and depth.
- 3 garlic cloves – Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 2 bell peppers – Red and green for both sweetness and color.
Canned Ingredients
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes – These add body to the chili.
- 1 can of tomato paste – Thickens the broth and adds depth.
- 1 can of kidney beans – A chili staple for texture.
- 1 can of black beans – Adds variety and additional protein.
Spices and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chili powder – The main spice that gives chili its kick.
- 1 tablespoon cumin – Adds earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – For a smoky undertone.
- 1 teaspoon oregano – Enhances the savory flavors.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Liquids
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth – For simmering and blending the flavors.
Instructions
- Brown the Meat
Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef (or lamb) and turkey ham. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. - Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. - Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices. - Add the Beans and Broth
Pour in the kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Stir everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. - Simmer
Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop. - Taste and Adjust
Check for seasoning and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more broth. - Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
Notes
- Chili for a Crowd: Double the recipe for gatherings or potlucks.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the chili the day before for even better flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth.