Easy Homemade Chili

Easy Homemade Chili is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you are hosting a game day party, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving a warm bowl of comfort food, this chili will satisfy your appetite. With its rich blend of spices and tender meat, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can start enjoying this delicious chili in no time.
• Flavorful and Filling: The combination of ground beef and beans creates a robust flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or in tacos for added versatility.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for later use. It tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference—perfect for everyone from mild to spicy lovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Easy Homemade Chili, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can simplify the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or meat chopper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This allows ample space for simmering the chili without splattering.
• Wooden spoon or meat chopper: Ideal for breaking down the meat evenly as it cooks.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 pounds lean ground beef

For Flavoring

• 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
• 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes (petite, undrained)
• 4 cups tomato juice
• 1 cup ketchup

Beans and Spices

• 2 15 ounce cans pinto beans (undrained)
• 1 16 ounce can kidney beans (undrained)
• 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar
• 3 Tablespoons chili powder
• ¾ teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you want it spicier)

Optional Thickeners and Toppings

• Cornmeal (to thicken, if desired)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)

How to Make Easy Homemade Chili

Step 1: Sauté Onion

Add the olive oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 2: Brown Meat

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook while breaking apart into small pieces with a wooden spoon until fully browned. Remove excess grease from the pot.

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Pour in the red apple vinegar and cook for an additional minute. Then add the diced tomatoes, tomato juice, ketchup, both types of beans, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat while stirring. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for at least one hour or up to three hours. Stir occasionally until thickened to your liking. If desired, stir in some cornmeal during this time to achieve a thicker consistency.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle chili into bowls and top with optional shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream if desired. Enjoy your hearty Easy Homemade Chili!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chili

Serving Easy Homemade Chili is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the chili’s spices.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Use as a Filling

• Chili Tacos: Spoon the chili into taco shells and garnish with fresh vegetables for a fun twist.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with chili, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.

Pair with Bread

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side to soak up the chili’s rich sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the hearty flavors of chili perfectly.

How to Perfect Easy Homemade Chili

To ensure your Easy Homemade Chili turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Always choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Let It Simmer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the more flavorful it becomes; aim for at least one hour.
• Add Spice Gradually: Start with a small amount of cayenne pepper and increase to your desired heat level.
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for added texture and flavor depth.
• Try Different Toppings: Get creative with toppings like avocado or green onions for added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Chili

Pairing side dishes with Easy Homemade Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This classic pairing is sweet and crumbly, perfect for soaking up the chili.
2. Rice: Serve over fluffy rice to balance the richness of the chili and add substance.
3. Salad: A fresh green salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
4. Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling and satisfying meal.
5. Fried Plantains: Their sweetness complements the spiciness of the chili beautifully.
6. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips make an excellent accompaniment for scooping up chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Homemade Chili can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onions can lead to a lack of flavor. Always start by cooking your onions in olive oil until they are soft and translucent.
• Using Low-Quality Meat: Not using fresh or quality meat can affect the overall taste of your chili. Choose lean ground beef for the best results.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow your chili to simmer for at least one hour for deeper flavors; longer is even better!
• Overloading on Spices: Adding too many spices without balance can overpower the dish. Stick to measured amounts and adjust based on personal preference.
• Neglecting to Drain Beans: Using undrained beans can make your chili overly watery. Drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the pot.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Easy Homemade Chili

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Homemade Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring often until warmed through—add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Homemade Chili.

How do I make my Easy Homemade Chili spicier?

You can add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will make your chili lighter while still being flavorful.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Homemade Chili?

Cornbread, rice, or grilled cheese sandwiches are all excellent sides that complement chili perfectly.

Can I customize my Easy Homemade Chili recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or try various spices to make it your own.

Is Easy Homemade Chili freezer-friendly?

Yes! Just store it in airtight containers, and it will be good in the freezer for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Chili recipe is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can tailor it with different meats or spice levels based on your preferences. Whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed on a cozy night in, this chili recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try today!

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Easy Homemade Chili

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the satisfying warmth of Easy Homemade Chili, a hearty dish perfect for any occasion. This delicious chili is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for game day gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights at home. With a rich blend of spices and tender ground beef combined with nutritious beans, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s customizable for varying spice levels and can be served on its own or atop baked potatoes and nachos for added versatility. Enjoy a comforting bowl of chili that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
• 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes (petite, undrained)
• 4 cups tomato juice
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 15 ounce cans pinto beans (undrained)
• 1 16 ounce can kidney beans (undrained)
• 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar
• 3 Tablespoons chili powder
• ¾ teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you want it spicier)
• Cornmeal (to thicken, if desired)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and sauté the diced onion until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces while cooking until fully browned; drain excess grease.
3. Stir in red apple vinegar and cook for another minute before adding diced tomatoes, tomato juice, ketchup, beans, brown sugar, and spices.
4. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low; simmer uncovered for at least one hour or up to three hours until thickened.
5. Serve hot with optional toppings like cheese or sour cream.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour (up to 3 hours)
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg