Description
A hearty and flavorful classic chili made with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, simmered to perfection and topped with cheddar, sour cream, and scallions. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy meal and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Chili Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 large white onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
- 1 1/2 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained
Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced scallions
Instructions
- Heat the oil and cook onions: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the extra-virgin olive oil. Add the chopped white onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is slightly softened and translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add garlic and tomato paste: Stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the tomato paste, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, approximately 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Add spices and seasonings: Stir in chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add tomatoes and beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and drained kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the chili: Reduce the heat to medium and let the chili simmer, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the liquid slightly reduces, about 20 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced scallions for garnish.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño with the onions.
- To make it milder, omit the cayenne pepper entirely.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a full meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: classic chili, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, hearty chili
