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Classic White Bean Beef Chili

Classic White Bean Beef Chili for Cozy, Comforting Nights

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Classic White Bean Beef Chili featuring creamy cannellini beans and tender ground beef—perfect for chilly nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Base

  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend) Main protein source.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances aroma and flavor.
  • 8 oz Chopped Green Chiles Contributes mild heat.
  • 1 tbsp Ground Cumin Key spice for earthy flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano Adds herbal notes.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Base liquid that adds richness.
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon Deepens flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjusts heat levels.
  • 1/4 tsp White Pepper For subtle heat and flavor.
  • 2 cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed Provides creaminess.

For the Cheese & Toppings

  • 1.5 cups Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded Adds creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, for serving For topping.
  • Fresh Cilantro For garnish.
  • Sour Cream For dolloping.

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes until it's nicely browned. Drain excess fat, leaving behind about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
  • Sauté the Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it turns caramelized and sweet.
  • Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 minute. Mix in cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, white pepper, and cayenne. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
  • Incorporate Chiles: Toss in the chopped green chiles and let everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes.
  • Mix in Beans: Add the rinsed cannellini beans to the pot. Mash about half of them.
  • Pour in Broth: Add the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
  • Melt the Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in 1.5 cups of shredded cheese, stirring to blend until melted. Let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
  • Serve Warm: Dish out the chili into bowls and top with the remaining cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

Notes

Optional: Enjoy with a side of warm cornbread for an added layer of comfort.
Keyword beef chili, chili, comfort food, easy recipes, one-pot meal, white bean chili