The Best Ground Beef Chili
This ground beef chili is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
If you love cozy ground beef dinners like this, try this Old Fashioned Goulash
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Chili
Rich, bold flavor with simple ingredients
Easy one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Customizable spice level
Family-friendly comfort food
For another slow-simmered dish, try this Slow Cooker Goulash
Ingredients for Ground Beef Chili
This recipe uses pantry staples to create a thick and flavorful chili.
- Ground Beef (1 lb). The base of the chili, adding rich flavor and protein. For another beef recipe, try these Ground Beef Meatballs
- Kidney Beans (1–2 cans). Adds texture and heartiness.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can). Provides acidity and base flavor.
Tomato Sauce (1 cup). Helps thicken the chili.
Onion (1 cup, diced). Builds flavor depth.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced). Enhances savory taste.
Chili Powder (1–2 tbsp). Adds classic chili flavor.
Cumin (1 tsp). Adds warmth and depth.
Paprika (1 tsp). Adds smoky flavor.
Salt and Pepper (to taste). Balances the dish.
How to Make Ground Beef Chili
Cook the beef
In a large pot, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.Add ingredients
Stir in beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices.Simmer
Let the chili simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.Adjust seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.Serve
Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
For more one-pot meals, explore these stovetop recipes
Want to see these recipes in action? Follow Stacie on YouTube for step-by-step videos and even more kitchen secrets!
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Chili
Brown the beef for deeper flavor
Simmer longer for richer taste
Adjust spice levels to your preference
Use quality spices for best results
Let chili rest before serving
For another hearty dinner, try this Ground Beef and Tater Tot Casserole. For more easy recipe tutorials and expert baking tips, subscribe to Sugar Face Bakes on YouTube and join our growing community of home bakers!
The Best Chili Recipe with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes fire roasted if possible.
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 15 oz kidney beans
- 15 oz black beans or ranch beans
- 1½ cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Diced red onion
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapenos
- Crushed tortilla strips
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it into crumbles and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Pro Tip: Don’t stir constantly. Let the beef develop brown bits — that equals flavor.
- Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper directly into the pot. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. This is where the magic happens.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to caramelize slightly.
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and optional flavor boosters. Stir well.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–35 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally. The chili should coat the back of a spoon when done.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving without toppings)
Calories: 410Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make ground beef chili without beans?
Yes, ground beef chili can be made without beans. Simply omit the beans and increase the amount of ground beef or vegetables. The chili will still be thick and flavorful, especially if simmered longer to reduce the liquid.
How long does ground beef chili last in the fridge?
Ground beef chili lasts in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Let the ground beef chili cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave until hot.
Can I freeze ground beef chili?
Yes, ground beef chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow the ground beef chili to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through.
Can I make ground beef chili ahead of time?
Yes, ground beef chili can be made ahead and often tastes better the next day. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Reheat on the stovetop at medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I make ground beef chili gluten-free?
Yes, ground beef chili is naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Check labels on canned goods and spices to ensure there are no added fillers.
Why is my ground beef chili watery?
Ground beef chili becomes watery when there is too much liquid or not enough simmering time. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also mash some beans to help thicken the texture.
Can I make ground beef chili without a large pot?
Yes, ground beef chili can be made in a deep skillet if you don’t have a large pot. Make sure it has enough capacity to hold all ingredients and allow simmering without spilling.
What should I serve with ground beef chili?
Ground beef chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. It also goes well with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions for added flavor and texture.
More Dinner Recipes
Looking for more easy and comforting meals? Browse all recipes here:
