Classic Beef Chili Recipe

There is something truly special about a hearty, flavorful bowl of Classic Beef Chili that instantly warms you from the inside out. This recipe brings together tender, richly seasoned ground beef with a vibrant blend of spices, savory tomato, and a touch of sweetness for balance. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving comfort on a chilly evening, Classic Beef Chili delivers a perfect harmony of smoky, spicy, and hearty elements that make every spoonful an invitation to savor the moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Classic Beef Chili are wonderfully straightforward but completely essential to building those layers of deep, authentic flavor. Each element plays a crucial role, from the spices that give the chili character to the beef and veggies that create satisfying texture and body.

• 2.5 pounds 85% lean ground beef: Provides rich meatiness and protein without too much fat.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda: Helps tenderize the beef for a great bite.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For sautéing the aromatics and browning the beef.
• 1 large yellow onion (or 2 small), minced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of savory warmth.
• 1 red bell pepper, minced: Offers a subtle sweetness and color contrast.
• 2 tablespoons ancho chile powder: Delivers smoky, mild heat with complexity.
• 1 tablespoon chipotle chile powder: Adds smoky spice and richness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Brings earthiness that anchors the chili.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds herbal brightness.
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander: Introduces subtle citrusy notes.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts smoky flavor and beautiful red color.
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional): Softens the heat with a hint of sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal: Helps thicken the chili naturally for a luscious texture.
• 3 cups beef broth: Builds a rich, savory base.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Adds acidity and body.
• ¼ cup tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and enhances thickness.
• 1 tablespoon molasses (optional): Adds a subtle touch of sweet complexity.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, from 1 lime: Brightens and lifts the overall flavor.
• Cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, cheese, scallions: Perfect garnish options to customize your bowl.

How to Make Classic Beef Chili

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef

Start by combining the ground beef with salt, baking soda, and a splash of water in a large bowl. Mix with your hands until the seasoning is evenly distributed, then let it rest on the counter for about 20 minutes. This resting time allows the baking soda to tenderize the meat, ensuring your chili has a juicy, tender texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil before adding the minced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook these together, stirring often, until the mixture is soft and fragrant, about 4 to 6 minutes. This creates the flavorful foundation that infuses every bite with savory sweetness and aromatics.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, increase the heat to high, add the beef to the pot, and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s thoroughly browned, about 10 to 12 minutes. The moisture released by the meat won’t be drained; it’s part of what keeps the chili rich, but you`ll skim the excess fat later so it’s not greasy.

Step 4: Add the Spice Blend

Toss in the ancho chile powder, chipotle chile powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Stir frequently and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spices smell fragrant and coat the beef beautifully. This step really brings the complexity that makes Classic Beef Chili stand out.

Step 5: Combine the Liquids and Simmer

Stir in the cornmeal, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and optional molasses to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer gently for 2 hours. This slow cooking melds flavors perfectly and softens the ingredients into a lush, hearty meal.

Step 6: Final Touches

After simmering, skim off excess fat from the surface, which will enhance flavor without heaviness. Stir in fresh lime juice to add brightness, then taste and adjust salt or seasoning as needed. If you prefer a thinner chili, add a little water; for thicker, keep simmering uncovered until you get the desired texture.

How to Serve Classic Beef Chili

Garnishes

The best part about Classic Beef Chili is customizing it with your favorite toppings. Bright cilantro sprigs, creamy sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced scallions, and zesty lime wedges all add freshness, creaminess, and vibrancy to every spoonful.

Side Dishes

Classic Beef Chili pairs perfectly with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or crispy tortilla chips. These sides soak up the rich sauce and add satisfying textures that complement the hearty chili beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your chili over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes, or make hearty chili-stuffed peppers. You can also use it as a topping for nachos or hot dogs to turn simple meals into something extraordinary.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Beef Chili actually tastes better the next day after the spices have had more time to marry. Let it cool slightly, refrigerate uncovered until fully chilled, then cover and store in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat and enjoy.

Freezing

This chili freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Cool completely, then pour into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your chili over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly. If it’s thickened too much in storage, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Classic Beef Chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics on the stove, transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The flavors will deepen and the beef will become incredibly tender.

What’s the purpose of the baking soda in this recipe?

The baking soda helps tenderize the ground beef by raising the pH level, allowing the meat proteins to break down more easily. This results in a chili with a more tender, juicy texture that makes every bite enjoyable.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

While this recipe is designed for beef, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Keep in mind the flavor will be milder, so you might want to slightly increase the spices for extra punch.

Why is cornmeal added to the chili?

Cornmeal acts as a natural thickener, giving the chili a pleasantly thick and cohesive texture without needing to add flour or cornstarch. It’s a little trick that helps create that perfect bowl of chili consistency.

How spicy is the Classic Beef Chili?

This chili has a lovely smoky warmth with moderate heat from the ancho and chipotle chile powders. If you prefer it milder, reduce or omit the chipotle powder. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped fresh chiles.

Final Thoughts

Making Classic Beef Chili at home is one of those simple pleasures that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, satisfying, and totally customizable. Once you make it a few times, you’ll find all sorts of ways to tweak and perfect it to your personal tastes. So gather your ingredients, embrace the wonderful aromas, and dive into a big bowl of soupy, spicy, meaty goodness that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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