Best Homemade Chili

This homemade chili is everything you want in a comforting, flavorful bowl of goodness. With hearty beans, seasoned meat, and a bold tomato base, it’s a satisfying meal that comes together easily. Whether you’re hosting a game day crowd or looking for a warm family dinner, this chili recipe is a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Chili

• One-pot simplicity for easy cleanup
• Bold, comforting flavors that satisfy every time
• Customizable heat level with jalapeño
• Meal prep friendly—tastes even better the next day
• Perfect for topping or dipping—serve with chips, bread, or cornbread

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Diced avocado
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Cilantro
• Lime wedges

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and minced jalapeño (if using).
• Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Brown the Meat

• Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot.
• Break up the meat using a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
• Cook for another 5–7 minutes, until the meat is browned and fully cooked through.

Add Tomatoes and Beans

• Stir in:
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels
• Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Season the Chili

• Add the spices to the pot:
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Stir to evenly distribute the seasoning.

Simmer

• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• This allows the flavors to meld together and thicken.

Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.

Serve

• Ladle the hot chili into bowls.
• Garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or a squeeze of lime.
• Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or tortilla chips.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add more beans or lentils.
• Boost the flavor with a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a splash of beer.
• Spice it up with cayenne or chipotle powder instead of jalapeño.
• Batch cook and freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cornbread muffins, tortilla chips, or over a baked potato.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or cheddar cheese.
• Spoon it into a bowl and enjoy with warm bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
• Use as a topping for hot dogs or nachos.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, portion into freezer bags or containers, and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, turkey is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe.

What beans can I substitute?
Pinto, cannellini, or great northern beans can replace kidney or black beans.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

How spicy is it?
It’s mild to medium. For more heat, leave the jalapeño seeds or add hot sauce.

Can I omit the corn?
Absolutely—just skip it or swap in diced zucchini or bell pepper.

Conclusion

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner, this Best Homemade Chili delivers flavor, comfort, and simplicity in every spoonful. With a flexible ingredient list and rich taste, it’s a recipe worth adding to your regular meal rotation. Top it your way and enjoy it all week long!

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