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Classic Beef and Bean Chili

Hearty classic beef and bean chili topped with cheese and fresh cilantro.
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A hearty and comforting chili with ground beef, kidney beans, and pinto beans simmered in a rich, spiced tomato base. This timeless recipe delivers deep flavor and a thick, satisfying texture perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (85/15 recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  2. Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains.
  3. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if using) over the beef. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, beef broth, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pot bottom.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Partially cover and simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for 60-90 minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let chili sit off heat for 10 minutes to thicken before serving.

Notes

For a slow cooker version, brown beef and bloom spices in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Chili tastes even better the next day and freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/classic-beef-bean-chili/