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The Ultimate Best Classic Ground Beef and Bean Chili

A close-up of a hearty bowl of amazing 1-hour chili, rich with ground meat, tomatoes, and kidney beans.
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This recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful chili that is perfect for weeknight dinners or game days. It uses simple pantry staples to create a satisfying comfort food experience.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder (secret ingredient for depth)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), rinsed beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Stir in the salt, pepper, and the cocoa powder. This adds richness without making the chili taste like chocolate.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For the best flavor, simmer for 1 to 2 hours.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last 20 minutes of cooking time to allow some liquid to evaporate.
  • If you prefer a spicier chili, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the other spices.
  • This recipe freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for storage.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/best-classic-ground-beef-bean-chili/