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Bowl of ultimate chili recipe topped with cheese and cilantro

Chili

A comforting chili packed with flavor and texture, combining a rich sauce with ground beef and hearty beans, perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15) Juicy and savory, forms the hearty base.
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion (finely diced) Adds depth to the flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Brightens every bite.
  • 1 15-oz. can pinto beans (drained and rinsed) Provides texture and richness.
  • 1 15-oz. can kidney beans (drained and rinsed) Adds color and substance.
  • 1 15-oz. can tomato sauce Binds everything together.
  • 1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes Lends freshness.
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste Enhances richness.
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup Balances out the flavors.
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder Brings heat and warmth.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder Enhances aroma.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Adds depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Gives a hint of barbecue flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper Adds a subtle kick.
  • 1 cup beef broth Adds moisture and flavor.
Toppings
  • shredded cheddar cheese A perfect topping.
  • Fritos Adds texture and fun.
  • green onion Provides a fresh finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by heating a large stockpot over medium/high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef along with the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 7-10 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the onion is translucent.
  3. Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot. Pour in the maple syrup and stir to combine.
  4. Add the chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, ground pepper, and beef broth. Stir until all the spices are evenly distributed.
  5. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Serving
  1. Top your chili with shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of green onion, and Fritos.

Notes

For a spicier chili, include diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef for lentils or mushrooms.