Ground Beef and Bean Chili

Name: Ground Beef and Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty ground beef and bean chili is perfect for a cozy dinner or game day gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:46:14.415Z

This chili is a family favorite, packed with flavor and protein. It's easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

        Why You'll Love This Chili
        Hearty and filling – perfect for cold nights
Rich, robust flavors that deepen with each bite
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

A Warm Bowl of Comfort

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chili on a chilly evening. Ground beef and beans create a satisfying base, while the spices bring warmth and depth to each bite. This dish is more than just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo while you curl up on the couch.

As the chili simmers, your kitchen will fill with an enticing aroma that invites everyone to gather around the table. The rich scent of tomatoes, spices, and savory beef is sure to whet your appetite. When it’s finally time to serve, the anticipation builds, making each spoonful all the more enjoyable.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this ground beef and bean chili fits the bill. It's a crowd-pleaser that can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings, making it ideal for potlucks or tailgating events. Plus, it's a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup for you.

You can also make this chili ahead of time and let the flavors develop even further in the fridge overnight. Reheating it the next day makes it taste even better, as the spices have had time to meld. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal that pleases everyone.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best things about chili is its versatility. This recipe serves as a great foundation, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings. Want to add a little heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Prefer a smokier flavor? A dash of smoked paprika can work wonders.

When it comes to toppings, the options are endless. Sour cream, shredded cheese, diced green onions, or even avocado can elevate your chili to the next level. Feel free to get creative and make this dish uniquely yours, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it just the way they like.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious chili:

Chili Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chili:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Then add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Mix well.

Incorporate the Beans

Stir in the kidney beans and black beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the chili is thickened and flavors have melded, serve hot. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Let the chili cool before storing any leftovers in an airtight container.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chili thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

For longer storage, consider freezing your chili. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

Chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ground beef provides a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The beans are high in fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which can help reduce the risk of certain diseases.

By making this dish at home, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose leaner meats or add more vegetables if desired. This makes it easier to tailor the recipe to meet your dietary preferences or nutritional needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative for this recipe.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or additional beans and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze chili leftovers?

Absolutely! Allow the chili to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and avocado.