The Best Ever Homemade Chili Recipe has that magic something that makes you stop and say wow after the first bite. It’s smoky, rich, packed with flavor, and just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly night or feeding a hungry crew during game day, this is truly the best ever homemade chili recipe you’ll make again and again
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Why You’ll Love The Best Ever Homemade Chili Recipe
It’s simple to throw together with pantry staples but tastes like it simmered all day
The flavor builds beautifully with every spoonful think layers of savory beef, warm spices, and tender beans
You only need one pot and 30 minutes of active cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights
It’s perfect for meal prep and even better the next day
If you’re craving something ultra cozy, this Classic Chili Recipe is another weeknight favorite you can try next
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 pounds ground beef or turkey
1 large yellow or white onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can chopped tomatoes (15 oz)
2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 medium green chili or 1 can diced green chilies
4 tablespoons chili seasoning (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, black pepper)
Ingredient Notes and Swaps
You can swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option
Use pinto or cannellini beans if that’s what you’ve got
For extra richness, try adding a splash of beer, a bit of cocoa powder, or even a spoon of brewed coffee
If you love fall flavors, this Pumpkin Chili Recipe gives a fun seasonal spin on the classic
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Make The Best Ever Homemade Chili Recipe
Start by dicing the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and green chili if using fresh
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and green chili. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant
Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5 minutes
Stir in your chili seasoning and oregano. Let it cook for another minute so the spices bloom
Add the canned tomatoes, fresh tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together
Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes so the flavors really come together
Now stir in the beans and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. The chili will thicken beautifully
Let it rest for 10 minutes off heat before serving. That’s when the magic happens
Our Favorite Chili Toppings
This chili is a canvas for your favorite toppings. We love shredded sharp cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions. Crushed tortilla chips add the perfect crunch, while avocado slices bring a cooling creaminess
Make it a cozy dinner duo with a bowl of this Butternut Squash Soup on the side for the ultimate comfort night
Serving Ideas
Spoon it over a bed of rice or scoop it into a baked potato. Use it to top nachos or stuff it into wraps for a meal-on-the-go. You can even make chili fries or pour it into mini bread bowls for fun serving
Want to add a twist? Try a swirl of chipotle salsa or a handful of crushed corn chips for texture and spice
How to Store and Reheat
Let the chili cool completely before storing. It keeps in the fridge for 3 to 4 days
For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months
To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. It also reheats beautifully in the microwave
Tips for The Best Ever Homemade Chili Recipe
For a little brightness, stir in a splash of lime juice or apple cider vinegar just before serving
Want it spicier? Add extra chili flakes or a pinch of chipotle powder
Looking to go vegetarian? Swap the meat for lentils, mushrooms, or a vegan meat substitute the spice mix does all the flavor lifting
If you’ve got leftover chili, spoon it into mini pies or top with cornbread batter and bake for a two-in-one meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to deepen
Can I use dry beans instead of canned?
Yes, just soak and cook them beforehand. You’ll need about 1.5 cups of cooked beans per can
How do I thicken chili naturally?
Let it simmer uncovered. You can also mash a few beans or add a spoonful of cornmeal or masa harina to help it thicken
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The Best Ever Homemade Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
- 1 large yellow or white onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cans kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz chopped tomatoes
- 2 fresh tomatoes chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 medium green chili or 1 can diced green chilies
- 4 tablespoons chili seasoning cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, black pepper
Instructions
- Dice the onion, garlic, fresh tomatoes, and green chili if using fresh.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and green chili, sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in chili seasoning and let cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- Add canned tomatoes, fresh tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes to build flavor.
- Stir in beans and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes until thickened.
- Let rest for 10 minutes off heat before serving.