Easy Chili Recipe with Bold and Rich Flavors
A steaming bowl of chili is the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out. With its rich layers of flavour, tender meat, beans, and a perfect blend of spices, chili is a dish that never goes out of style. This easy chili recipe is designed to give you that homemade depth of taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance. It combines bold seasonings with simple pantry staples to create a hearty meal that feels satisfying but is still approachable for a weeknight dinner. Whether you want to feed your family, meal prep for the week, or impress guests at a casual gathering, this chili recipe delivers every time with consistency and flavor.
Why You Need This Recipe
This chili recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly versatile. It can be customized to your preferred spice level, made with ground beef, turkey, or even a plant based alternative, and it reheats beautifully for leftovers. It is a budget friendly recipe that uses common ingredients you likely already have, yet it tastes as if it has been simmering all day. Perfect for busy nights, cozy weekends, or even game day gatherings, this dish is a must add to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully for a flavorful and filling chili. Below is a clear breakdown of the essentials with calorie counts per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | 770 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Onion diced | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic minced | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Red bell pepper diced | 1 medium | 40 |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 28 ounces | 125 |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | 30 |
| Kidney beans drained | 15 ounces | 330 |
| Black beans drained | 15 ounces | 315 |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | 30 |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons | 16 |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | 8 |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Approximate total calories per serving: 380 (based on 6 servings)
How to Prepare
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once the meat is fully cooked, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.
Next, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld together. For even richer flavor, simmer longer if you have the time. Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning before serving hot.
Pro Tips
For maximum flavor, toast your spices in the pot before adding liquids as this enhances their aroma. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer without the lid so the broth reduces naturally. For extra heat, add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper. To keep it lighter, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef without losing the depth of flavor.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Chili pairs wonderfully with freshly baked cornbread or warm crusty bread that helps soak up the rich sauce. You can top it with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or fresh cilantro for added freshness and texture. For a healthier option, try topping with sliced avocado or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This easy chili recipe with bold and rich flavours is a dish you will come back to again and again. It is hearty, satisfying, and full of warmth, yet simple enough to prepare on a busy evening. With its balance of spices and ingredients, it creates the perfect bowl of comfort food that can be enjoyed in endless ways. Whether you are serving it for a family dinner or sharing it with friends, this chili recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
