Classic Chili

A Classic Comfort Food for Cozy Nights

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Homestyle Chili to warm you up on a chilly evening. This classic chili recipe, featuring ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich blend of spices, is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a simple stovetop chili recipe to whip up for a weeknight dinner or the best classic chili recipe to impress your guests, this hearty chili recipe is your go-to. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious Ground beef chili recipe simmering on your stovetop in no time. Perfect for cozy nights in, this best stovetop chili recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

What is Chili?

Chili, often referred to as chili con carne (chili with meat), is a hearty stew typically made with ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of spices. It’s a beloved dish in many households due to its rich, robust flavors and versatility. Originating from Texas, chili has become a staple in American cuisine, especially during colder months. Each chili recipe can vary widely, incorporating different types of meats, beans, and spices to create a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients for Homestyle Chili

• 1 TBSP olive oil
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of crushed garlic
• 1 lb extra lean ground beef
• 1 TBSP chili powder
• 1 TBSP Paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper 
• 2 15 oz cans of mixed chili beans in chili sauce
• 1 cup of beer
• 28 oz can of petite diced tomatoes

Suggested toppings: 

• Cheese
• Sour cream
• Corn chips
• Green Onion

*printable recipe card is available at the bottom of this page

Instructions

• Start out by dicing your peppers and onions. I love using the chopper for this step because it makes all of the pieces the same size.
• Heat your dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the oil and allow it to warm up before adding the peppers and onions.
• Sauté the peppers and onions until they start to soften (about 5 minutes).

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• Add the pressed / crushed garlic and cook 1 additional minute. I love this garlic press because you don’t have to peel the garlic and it has a little scraper attached to it to scrape the pressed garlic into the pot.
• Move the veggies to the sides of the pot. Add the ground beef to the middle. Cook until no longer pink, crumbling as it cooks.

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• I use extra lean beef, so the grease is minimal but it still needs to be drained. To drain, push the contents of the pot to one side and then use a paper towel to absorb the liquid. Remove the paper towel with tongs and throw away.
• Open the canned tomatoes and beans using a can opener. Battery operated hands-free can opener
• Add the spices, beer, beans, and tomatoes.

• Stir to combine all ingredients.
• Bring to a simmer then reduce heat and cover.

• Simmer for at least one hour but the longer, the better. I like to simmer for several hours. If the chili becomes too soupy, simmer uncovered until some of the liquid has evaporated.

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Make It Your Own

This homestyle chili recipe is a fantastic basic recipe and a great place to start, but it can be easily customized to suit your taste. Feel free to doctor it up with additional ingredients like corn, jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of beans or add a bit of chocolate or cinnamon for a surprising depth of flavor. Top with cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Serve with Fritos Scoops. Enjoy this classic chili on a cozy night in and savor the warmth and comfort it brings.