How to Make Classic Chili The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially as the leaves start to turn and the air gets a little crisp. I can almost hear the laughter of family and friends gathered around the table, sharing stories and enjoying this hearty dish. If you’re like me and love easy pasta recipes for quick family dinners, then you’re going to adore this Easy Classic Chili Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food! It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for those cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Hearty and filling, ideal for chilly fall evenings.
• Versatile – customize with your favorite toppings!
• Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day.
• Perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering chili:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Season the chili with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss in the bay leaf for extra flavor.
5. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:

• For a deeper flavor, let the chili simmer longer. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes!
• Feel free to add in other vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative.
• Don’t forget to check out my Best Ever Beef Chili for another delicious twist!

How to Serve

Chili is so versatile! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a creamy finish.
• Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• For a fun twist, serve over rice or pasta for a hearty fusion dish.
• Check out my Classic Slow Cooker Chili for an easy, hands-off option!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Chili also freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• For more delicious chili ideas, don’t miss my Chili Recipe page!

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and comforting Easy Classic Chili Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, this chili is the answer. Enjoy every spoonful, and happy cooking!