Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food that'll make your kitchen smell like a culinary paradise! Our Chili Beef and Red Bean Chili is not just a meal—it's an experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine a hearty, spice-packed dish that combines tender ground beef, rich red beans, and a symphony of bold seasonings that'll warm you from the inside out. Whether you're craving a cozy dinner on a chilly night or looking to impress at your next gathering, this chili recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can red beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the browned beef and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef and distribute the spices evenly.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the drained red beans. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili cook for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- To elevate your Chili Beef and Red Bean Chili from good to absolutely incredible, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Choose high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content (80/20 mix) for maximum flavor and richness.
- Take your time when browning the beef—developing those deep, caramelized flavors is key to a rich chili.
- Toast your spices briefly before adding liquids to intensify their aromatic qualities.
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a small amount of dark chocolate or a splash of coffee to the chili.
- Let the chili simmer low and slow to allow the flavors to meld and develop complexity.
- If possible, make the chili a day ahead—the flavors will continue to develop and become even more delicious overnight.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your personal taste preferences.
- For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot during cooking.Pro Tip: Serve with classic toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chopped cilantro to add extra layers of flavor and texture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg