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Featured image of delicious homemade Chilli Beef, ready to be served.

BEST EVER CHILLI BEEF

This Chilli Beef recipe delivers a flavor explosion with tender beef, creamy beans, and a thick, hearty sauce. It's customizable to your preferred heat level, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for meal prepping or freezing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or more, to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro, avocado, tortilla chips

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Can opener

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
  6. Drain off any excess grease.
  7. Pour the beef broth into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
  8. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
  9. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  10. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  11. Taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to taste.
  12. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of brown sugar, honey, or molasses. For extra depth, try adding a square of dark chocolate, a tablespoon of coffee grounds, or a dash of fish sauce. Chilli is even better the next day, so make it ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.