Created on August 18th, 2025 at 07:00 pm
Smoky, rich, and loaded with flavor 🍲
This bold and hearty homemade chili brings you all the cozy vibes with minimal effort. It’s simmered low and slow to develop smoky depth, juicy ground beef, tender beans, and a rich tomato base that sticks to your spoon in the best way. Whether you’re serving a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just need a comforting bowl on a chilly evening, this one-pot wonder is your answer. Plus, it’s ready in just over 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights! It’s the best chili recipe to warm your soul (and fill your belly). 🌶️🍽️
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8
📝 Ingredients List
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 small green bell peppers, diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1½ cups)
- 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 15 oz water
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 3 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (optional – helps reduce acidity)
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies:
In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add diced peppers and onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. 🌿 - Bloom the Spices:
Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chipotle, cayenne, salt, and white pepper. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen flavor. 🔥 - Brown the Meat:
Add ground beef or turkey. Use a spoon to break it up while cooking. Cook until browned, but it’s okay if a little pink remains. - Build the Sauce:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir everything well until smooth and combined. - Simmer for Flavor:
Let the chili simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes uncovered. - Add the Beans:
Stir in drained kidney beans. Simmer another 10–15 minutes so they soak in the flavor. - Final Touch (Optional):
Stir in baking soda. The sauce will foam briefly—keep stirring until the bubbles disappear. - Serve & Enjoy!
Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings — shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños. 🧀🌶️
💡 Pro Tips Section
- Storage: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 6 months.
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water before reheating if it’s too thick.
- Substitutions: Use turkey or even textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a leaner or vegetarian option.
- Serving Ideas: Serve over baked potatoes, with cornbread, or spooned over tortilla chips for chili nachos!
📊 Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
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