Chili
Let me teach you how to make this tried-and-true hearty Homemade Chili recipe. As the cooler weather sets in, this is the recipe that my whole family starts asking for. All you need is one pot, some simple pantry staples and a little time to whip up this delicious dish.
What's great about this recipe is its versatility. While the inclusion of beans in Chili is a debated topic, mine includes them. However, it's simple to omit the beans; just lessen the water and shorten the cooking time. I favor using dry beans in my chili, as they absorb the flavors during the long, slow cooking process until perfectly tender.
While I love serving Chili with plain crackers, it goes really well with a big slice of Cornbread. My husband's prefers making Frito Chili Pies, generously topped with shredded cheese. They're also perfect for chili dogs—even with beans included.
HOMEmade Chili Ingredients
Ground Beef - Ground pork, turkey or even shredded chicken will work for this recipe. If using shredded turkey or chicken, add it in 30 minutes before the chili is done cooking.
Pinto Beans - This recipe uses dry pinto beans. Canned beans can be substituted if needed. If using canned beans, add them in 30 minutes before the chili is done.
Tomato Sauce - The base of the sauce is made with canned tomato sauce.
Diced Tomatoes - Any size can be used. I prefer petite diced tomatoes.
Onions
Fresh Garlic
Water
Seasonings/Spices - This recipe uses a mixture of cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, paprika (smoked works really well), chipotle powder, salt and pepper.
Looking to ramp up the spice level? Pierce a Jalapeño and drop it in the pot during the cooking process. Or you can add sliced Jalapeños to your own bowl.
How To Make Chili
STEP 1
Start by first sorting and rinsing the beans to remove any debris.
TIP
Soaking the beans in water overnight with speed up the cooking process.
STEP 2
In a large pot over medium heat, begin browning the ground beef. Add in the diced onions and cook until the meat is thoroughly cooked, and the onions are tender. Add in the minced garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat, drain off the grease and set aside.
STEP 3
To the pot add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, water and all of the seasonings. Add the meat mixture back in and stir well.
STEP 4
Bring to a simmer, cover and reduce to low. Continue cooking for 5-6 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom. Add water as needed to allow the beans to cook through. The end result should be slightly thick. Adjust seasonings if needed. Enjoy!
How to freeze chili
Chili freezes amazingly well. I love freezing the leftovers and using them for quick dinners in the future.
Freeze in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
More delicious recipes
All you need to make this hearty Homemade Chili recipe is one pot, some simple pantry staples and a little time.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup onion (small diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika)
- 2 pinches chipotle powder (or cayenne)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 29 ounces tomato sauce
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (petite or any size)
- 1 1/2 cups dry pinto beans (rinsed)
- 5 cups water (more if needed during cooking)
In a large pot over medium heat, begin browning the ground beef. Add in the diced onions and cook until the meat is thoroughly cooked, and the onions are tender. Add in the minced garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat, drain off the grease and set aside.
To the pot add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, water and all of the seasonings. Add the meat mixture back in and stir well.
Bring the chili to a simmer, cover and reduce to low. Continue cooking for 5-6 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom. Add water as needed to allow the beans to cook through. The end result should be slightly thick. Adjust seasonings if needed.
Thank you for stopping by!