Homemade Chili
This hearty homemade chili combines ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato base with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and spices. Quick to prepare on the stovetop or slow cooker, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner, topped with cheese or sour cream. Customize for spice level and serve with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
- 1 or 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Onion (1 medium or large, diced)
- Garlic (optional, 1–2 cloves minced)
- Ground beef (1–2 pounds, or substitute ground turkey/chicken)
- Chili powder (2–8 tbsp, depending on heat preference)
- Ground cumin (2–3 tbsp)
- Sugar (1–2 tbsp to balance acidity)
- Tomato paste (optional, 2–3 tbsp)
- Canned diced tomatoes (15–28 oz, undrained)
- Tomato sauce (8–28 oz, adjust for desired consistency)
- Kidney beans or other beans (15–16 oz, drained and rinsed)
- Beef broth or water (1.5 cups, adjust for consistency)
- Salt, black pepper, cayenne, and other seasonings to taste.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté onions (and garlic if used) until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, salt, and other seasonings. Mix until well coated.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.