Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Add the Vegetables
Add the onion and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Add the garlic and jalapeño, if using, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and pinto beans.
Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together.
4. Season the Chili
Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer
Cover partially and let the chili simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The longer it gently simmers, the more the flavors come together. If it becomes too thick, add a little additional broth.
6. Taste and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more chili powder for a stronger chili flavor or jalapeño/cayenne for extra heat.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Best Chili Toppings
Set out a selection so everyone can build their own bowl:
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Diced green onions
Fresh jalapeños
Chopped cilantro
Diced avocado
Crushed tortilla chips
Saltine crackers
Cornbread
Tips for Great Chili
Brown the beef well. This gives the chili a deeper savory flavor.
Let it simmer. Even a simple chili benefits from some extra time for the tomatoes, beef, beans, and spices to meld together.
Adjust the heat. Use mild chili powder for a family-friendly version or add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot diced tomatoes for more heat.
Make it ahead. Chili often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to develop.
Storage
Allow leftover chili to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for several days or freeze portions for a convenient future meal.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it has become too thick.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re firmly on Team Beans or prefer your chili without them, this hearty version is hard to resist. The combination of seasoned beef, beans, tomatoes, and peppers creates the kind of comforting meal that’s perfect for a family dinner, game day, or a cold evening.
So… are you team chili WITH beans or WITHOUT beans? 🌶️🥣❤️
