LUNCH

Classic Beef Chili

May 20, 2025 /

Ingredients

     2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)

  • 2 tbsp chili powder

  • 1 tbsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)

  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed Instructions

  • Sauté Aromatics
    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

  • Cook the Meat
    Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

  • Add Spices
    Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.

  • Add Tomatoes and Beans
    Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and beans. Add brown sugar if using. Bring to a simmer.

  • Simmer
    Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for at least 30–60 minutes. Stir occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor.

  • Adjust Seasoning
    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a splash of water or broth if it gets too thick