Ground Beef Chili Simple

Name: Ground Beef Chili Simple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Corner

I love whipping up this Ground Beef Chili when I need something hearty and comforting! There's nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma that fills my kitchen as this chili simmers. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a dish that’s not only simple but also packs a punch in flavor. It's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and it always delivers satisfaction in every bite. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a side of cornbread, this chili is a true favorite in our home.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:37:35.561Z

When I first started making chili, I experimented with different spices and techniques. After a few tries, I discovered that allowing the beef to brown thoroughly before adding tomatoes and spices truly enhances the flavor. The Maillard reaction develops deep, rich flavors that elevate the dish. This simple step transformed my chili from average to outstanding.

One particular chilly evening, I invited friends over to try my new recipe. The glowing reviews and satisfied smiles warmed my heart. It reminded me of why I love cooking—sharing food is sharing love, and this chili is a delightful way to do just that!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty, comforting flavors that warm you up.
Simple and quick to prepare, making dinner stress-free.
A customizable dish that can fit any taste or dietary preference.

The Importance of Sautéing

Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding the ground beef is a crucial step in developing a deep flavor base for your chili. As these ingredients cook, the onion becomes translucent and sweet, while the garlic releases its aromatic oils. I find that cooking them over medium heat allows them to soften without burning, which is key to achieving that sweet and savory flavor profile.

When sautéing, keep an eye on the color of the onions. You want them to be soft and slightly golden around the edges, as this indicates that they're caramelizing nicely. If they start to brown rapidly, reduce the heat to avoid any bitterness in your chili.

Flavor Development Through Simmering

Allowing the chili to simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes is essential for melding the flavors together. This time lets the spices infuse throughout the dish and encourages the tomatoes to break down, creating a rich sauce. Stirring occasionally helps prevent any sticking at the bottom of the pot and ensures an even distribution of flavors.

If you find that your chili is too thick during this phase, you can add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to encourage evaporation, thickening the dish into a hearty delight.

Customizing Your Chili

This chili is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or additional beans, like black beans or pinto beans.

Another fun variation is to experiment with toppings. Instead of traditional shredded cheese, try crumbled feta or avocado slices for a fresh twist. I also love serving chili with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added creaminess and a healthy touch.

Ingredients

For the Chili

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Ingredients

Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer

Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Ladle the chili into bowls and enjoy with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese or sour cream.

Pro Tips

For more depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. You can also customize it by adding bell peppers or corn to the mix!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef Chili is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to bloom, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The longer it sits, the better it tastes as the spices have more time to infuse into the ingredients.

For longer storage, consider freezing your chili. It freezes beautifully and can last for up to three months when kept in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to restore any lost moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chili comes out too salty, a quick fix is to add a small, diced potato and let it cook in the chili for about 10-15 minutes. The potato will absorb some of the excess saltiness, helping balance the overall flavor.

On the other hand, if your chili lacks depth, consider boosting the flavors with a splash of apple cider vinegar or a spoonful of brown sugar. These ingredients add a subtle acidity or sweetness that can round out the dish nicely.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Ground Beef Chili with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. You can also offer a variety of toppings such as fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or crunchy tortilla chips to enhance the experience.

For a heartwarming twist, try serving the chili in bread bowls. Simply hollow out some fresh sourdough bread loaves and fill them with piping hot chili. Not only does it look impressive, but it provides a delicious way to soak up every last bit of chili!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives, but the flavor may vary slightly.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

Substituting the ground beef with lentils or more beans will keep it hearty and delicious.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro are my favorites!