Chili with meat is a warm and hearty dish that many people love to cook at home. It combines ground beef with nutritious beans, flavorful spices, and fresh vegetables. This recipe is easy to make, even for beginners, and it only takes about 30 minutes. Chili is comforting on a cold day and is perfect for family meals. People enjoy making it because you can customize it to your liking. You can make it as spicy or mild as you want, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your kitchen. Plus, it fills the house with wonderful smells as it cooks. Whether you serve it on a weeknight or a cozy weekend, chili with meat brings everyone together at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Chili with Meat
This chili is delicious, simple, and uses everyday ingredients. The combination of savory beef, rich tomatoes, and hearty beans makes each bite satisfying. The spices add warmth and depth, while the cooking process is straightforward. You can whip up a pot of chili without needing advanced cooking skills. It’s a meal that everyone in the family will enjoy, and you’ll likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.
How to Make Chili with Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb ground beef
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for cooking
Rice, tortillas, or crusty bread for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add canned tomatoes and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer.
- Let cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or crusty bread.
How to Serve Chili with Meat
Chili with meat is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it over warm rice for a filling meal. You can also offer tortilla chips for scooping or warm tortillas to wrap the chili. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, add a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For extra flavor, top your chili with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or sour cream.
How to Store Chili with Meat
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chili is great for meal prep, and it will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze chili for longer storage. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat it on the stove or microwave until warm.
Tips for the Best Chili with Meat
For the best flavor, allow your chili to simmer for at least 20 minutes. This lets the spices blend nicely with the meat and beans. If you like it spicier, add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. Always taste your chili and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or spices as needed. If your chili is too thick, you can add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix things up a bit! You can swap out the beans for black beans or pinto beans. Add some corn for sweetness and texture, or throw in some chopped zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition. For a smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can easily swap ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.
How spicy is this chili?
This chili has mild heat due to the spices. You can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or fresh peppers.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chili often tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld, making it perfect for meal prep.