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Classic Easy Beef Chili

Classic Easy Beef Chili

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This classic easy beef chili recipe is perfect for a satisfying meal. It’s packed with flavor and simple to make, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. You can adjust the spice level to your liking.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
  4. Add chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes.
  • You can prepare this chili a day in advance; the flavors often improve overnight.
  • Leftover chili can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat.
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg