Hearty Homemade Chili

Few dishes deliver comfort and flavor quite like a bowl of homemade chili. With its rich, savory base, tender ground beef, a mix of bold spices, and hearty beans, this chili recipe is a must-have for any home cook. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies on a cold day, brings people together for game night, or turns an ordinary evening into something special. What makes this version truly exceptional is the layering of flavor—aromatics like garlic and onion form the base, while ancho and chipotle chili powders give it a warm, smoky depth. A pop of sweet bell peppers and corn add texture and color, creating a balanced and dynamic chili.

This recipe is flexible enough to adapt to your preferences, whether you’re after a classic beef chili or want to customize it with different beans or garnishes. You can cook it ahead of time, freeze it, or double the batch to feed a crowd. And when it comes to toppings—anything goes. From sour cream and cheddar to crunchy radishes and creamy avocado, each garnish adds something unique to the bowl. Homemade chili isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm, nourishing tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Layers of Deep, Smoky Flavor

The combination of ancho and chipotle chili powders with cumin and oregano creates a rich, warming base that’s both bold and complex.

2. Hearty and Satisfying

With lean ground beef, beans, and vegetables, this chili is filling enough to serve as a complete meal.

3. Crowd-Pleaser

It’s a hit at potlucks, game days, and casual family dinners—everyone loves a great bowl of chili.

4. Customizable Garnishes

Each bowl can be personalized with your favorite toppings, from sour cream and cheddar to avocado and fresh herbs.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly

Chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

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Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onions
• Garlic
• Lean ground beef
• Salt
• Ancho chili powder
• Chipotle chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Oregano
• Sweet bell peppers
• Whole peeled tomatoes
• Water
• Kidney beans or black beans
• Fresh or frozen corn kernels

Garnishes:

• Sour cream
• Sharp cheddar
• Radishes
• Scallions
• Onions
• Avocado
• Shredded lettuce
• Jalapeños
• Cilantro

Variations

Make It Vegetarian

Omit the beef and add extra beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Use Different Proteins

Ground turkey, chicken, or bison can be used instead of beef.

Add Heat

Include extra chipotle powder, fresh jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.

Go Bean-Free

For a Texas-style chili, leave out the beans and add more meat and tomatoes.

Try Different Beans

Pinto, black, or white beans can be used to suit your preference or pantry availability.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the ground beef and salt, breaking up the meat as it browns. Cook until fully browned.

Step 4

Mix in the ancho chili powder, chipotle chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Stir well to coat the meat in the spices.

Step 5

Add the diced sweet bell peppers and cook for another 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 6

Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes and break them up with a spoon. Add water and stir to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Add the drained beans and corn, then continue simmering for another 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your choice of garnishes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chili powders for the best flavor.
• Browning the meat well adds a deeper umami base to the chili.
• Don’t rush the simmering—letting the chili cook low and slow develops better flavor.
• Add the beans and corn toward the end to prevent them from getting mushy.
• Taste and adjust spice levels gradually—heat can intensify as it cooks.

How to Serve

Ladle chili into bowls and let everyone top their own with a selection of garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheddar, scallions, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro. Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crusty slice of bread on the side for a satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the chili cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef and aromatics first, then transfer everything to the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4.

2. Can I use canned crushed tomatoes instead of whole?

Absolutely. Crushed or puréed tomatoes work just as well and save a step.

3. How spicy is this chili?

It has a medium warmth from the chili powders. Reduce the chipotle for a milder version.

4. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, and it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

5. What’s the best way to thicken chili?

Let it simmer uncovered or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to naturally thicken it.

6. Can I make this with no beans?

Yes. Just increase the meat or veggies to keep the texture hearty.

7. What’s the best kind of onion to use?

Yellow or white onions work best for chili, but red can also be used for a slightly sweeter flavor.

8. Is it okay to freeze chili with beans?

Yes. The beans hold up well in freezing and reheating, making this a great freezer meal.

9. What toppings go well with chili?

Sour cream, cheddar, avocado, cilantro, scallions, and tortilla strips are all great choices.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the extra volume.

Conclusion

Homemade chili is more than just a recipe—it’s a heartwarming, flavor-packed dish that brings people together. With bold spices, rich texture, and endless options for customization, this chili is perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to game day feasts. Whether you’re serving it fresh or from the freezer, every bowl is a warm, comforting experience.

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