This classic beef chili recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite, packed with bold flavors and tender chunks of beef. Unlike traditional chili recipes, this version is made without beans, allowing the flavors of the meat and spices to shine through. It's the perfect comfort food for chilly nights or game day gatherings. Serve it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a satisfying and fulfilling meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the beef chili hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
Interesting Facts
Beans are a common ingredient in most chili recipes, but this version omits them for a meatier texture and flavor.
Chili powder is a blend of spices that typically includes ground chili peppers, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano.
The longer you let the chili simmer, the more the flavors meld together and the meat becomes tender.
Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation.