How to Make Classic Chili Recipe 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 packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Customizable with your favorite toppings.
• Rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling meal.
• Great for cozy gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

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. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!
3. Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything together well.
4. Season your chili with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss in the bay leaf for extra flavor.
5. Let the chili simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens!
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 every time:

• For a deeper flavor, let your chili simmer longer. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together!
• Feel free to experiment with different beans or add corn for a sweet crunch.
• If you like it spicy, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
• 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, diced onions, or fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
• Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
• For a fun twist, serve it over baked potatoes or rice.
• If you’re looking for a slow-cooked version, check out my Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

• Store 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 last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• For more chili inspiration, don’t miss my Chili Recipe page!

So there you have it! This Easy Classic Chili Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly fall evenings or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Happy cooking!

Easy Classic Chili Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful chili perfect for cozy nights. Easy to prepare and customizable with toppings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Vegetables and aromatics

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 green green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Meat and beans

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

Broth and spices

• 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

Method

 

1. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in olive oil until soft.
2. Brown ground beef; drain excess fat.
3. Add beans, tomatoes, paste, and broth. Stir well.
4. Season with spices and simmer 30–45 minutes.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve hot with toppings.

Notes

For extra flavor, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.