Classic chili is a must-try recipe that combines hearty ingredients and bold spices for an unforgettable meal. Not only is it packed with flavor, but its easy preparation makes it the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
Hearty Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying and versatile as a classic chili. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening, or simply looking for a hearty, flavorful dish, this timeless recipe has you covered.
Quick and Easy Classic Chili Preparation
One of the best things about this classic chili recipe is its ease of preparation. With a simmering time of about 20 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. However, you can let the chili simmer longer if you prefer to develop the flavor more.
Slow Cooker Classic Chili Option
If you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker, you’ll be pleased to know that this chili recipe can be easily adapted for that cooking method. Additionally, you’ll find detailed instructions for preparing this dish in a slow cooker included in the recipe notes. This option is particularly great for busy days, allowing you to set it and forget it until it’s time for dinner.
Main Ingredients in Classic Chili
Beef: Use a pound of ground beef. Choose ground round or sirloin for lower fat content.
Onions: Chop and use a sweet onion for a milder flavor.
Peppers: Use a green or red pepper and a jalapeno with the seeds and membranes removed.
Garlic: Add fresh, minced garlic or jarred. Use 2-3 teaspoons if using jarred garlic.
Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes and their juice for this recipe.
Green Chiles: Use canned, diced green chiles.
Tomato Sauce: Use tomato sauce to bind all the ingredients.
Kidney Beans: Beans add texture to this chili. (They may be omitted.)
Beef Stock: Use beef or chicken stock (or substitute broth).
Cheese: Melt in the hot chili and sprinkle on top of each bowl.
A Flavorful Blend of Spices
Although the ingredient list for this chili may seem lengthy, most of the items are spices. Furthermore, these spices contribute to the classic chili’s complex, irresistible flavor. Specifically, from chili powder and cumin to paprika and oregano, each spice plays a crucial role in creating a delicious and well-balanced dish. Therefore, trust me when I say that the extra effort spent measuring out these spices is well worth it for the flavorful result.
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Ultimate Classic Chili: A Hearty and Flavorful Favorite
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 medium jalapeno, minced, seeds and membranes removed
- 1 medium green or red pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
- 4 ounces canned diced green chiles
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 15.5 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups beef or chicken stock (broth may be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons cream
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- extra salt and pepper for taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef and then add onions, peppers, and garlic. Cook until the onions wilt and any water cooks off.
- Add chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, cayenne, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire; stir.
- Add the tomatoes, green chiles, tomato sauce, beans, and stock. Stir. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the cream. Then add the cheese, saving a little to use as garnish. Stir until the cheese melts. Serve with tortilla chips and a spoonful of sour cream and cheddar cheese. Add additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.
Notes
Slow Cooker Option
- Brown the beef in a skillet (or in a slow cooker if it has a saute option). Add the onions, peppers, and garlic and cook until the onion wilts and any vegetable water cooks off.
- Add the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
- Then add all of the rest of the ingredients except the cheese and cream.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
- Stir in the cheese and cream after cooking is complete.