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Spicy Classic Beef Chili

Spicy Classic Beef Chili That Will Warm Your Heart

This Spicy Classic Beef Chili is a flavor-packed, comforting dish perfect for family gatherings and meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Base

  • 1.5 pounds Ground Beef Use an 80/20 blend for tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Adds deep richness.
  • 28 ounces Fire-Roasted Crushed Tomatoes San Marzano recommended.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Or substitute with a neutral oil.
  • 1 medium Onion (diced) Builds savory foundation.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Adds aromatic depth.

For the Spice Mix

  • 3 tablespoons Chili Powder Provides essential heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin Introduces warm notes.
  • 2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder Adds rich undertone.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust to heat preference.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust to heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Provides herbal freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

For the Beans & Broth

  • 1 can Kidney Beans Drain and rinse.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used.

For Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Brightens flavors.
  • Toppings Options include shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, scallions, cilantro, and tortilla chips.

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Prep ingredients: Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Heat oil: In a large pot, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté onion: Add diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  • Sauté garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  • Add tomato paste: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Cook beef: Add 1 ½ pounds of ground beef, breaking it up and cooking until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
  • Incorporate spices: Mix in the chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder, paprika, cayenne, and oregano.
  • Combine ingredients: Add kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
  • Simmer: Lower the heat and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes.
  • Finish with vinegar: Stir in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before serving.
  • Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and top with your choice of toppings.

Notes

For a complete meal, serve with warm cornbread. Allow flavors to meld before serving.
Keyword beef chili, chili recipe, comfort food, Hearty Meal, meal prep, spicy chili