The Best Ever Homemade Chili Recipe
This chili 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.
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.
Notes
For more heat, add chipotle or chili flakes. For depth, stir in cocoa powder or a splash of coffee. Vegetarian? Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. Finish with lime juice or apple cider vinegar for brightness.