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A red pot of award-winning classic chili topped with sour cream and green onions.

Award-Winning Classic Chili Recipe

A hearty and flavorful chili perfect for any occasion, combining rich spices and beans for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
Meat and Beans
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15 oz) cans cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
Spices and Seasonings
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 (6 oz) can can tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Toppings
  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • sour cream
  • green onions
  • jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Sauté diced onion in olive oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in spices, tomato paste, then add tomatoes, beans, broth, sugar, and Worcestershire. Simmer 45–60 minutes.
  4. Adjust seasonings, serve hot with toppings.

Notes

For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or jalapeños.