Go Back
chili recipe

Ultimate Comfort Chili Recipe: Hearty, Heavily Spiced Delight

This chili recipe is a hearty blend of flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings and cold nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 375 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced; can use shallots or white onion
  • 4 cloves garlic minced; fresh preferred
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste can substitute with crushed tomatoes

For the Meat

  • 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean) can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat

For Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt can substitute with sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder adjust based on spice preference
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin can substitute with coriander
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder optional
  • 1 teaspoon oregano can substitute with Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika enhances the taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

For Texture and Flavor

  • 1 can kidney beans can use black beans or pinto beans
  • 1 can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes can use regular crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth can substitute with vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar can substitute with lemon juice

For Toppings

  • 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack
  • 1/4 cup scallions finely chopped
  • 1 medium avocado diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro or parsley
  • 1 cup tortilla chips for dipping or topping

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add 1 diced yellow onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until it darkens.
  • Add ground beef, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
  • Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, cocoa powder, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
  • Incorporate kidney beans, fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat and let the chili simmer for 30-40 minutes until thick.
  • Add apple cider vinegar and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • Top with sour cream and shredded cheddar before serving.

Notes

Chili tastes better if allowed to rest overnight. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Keyword beef chili, chili recipe, Comfort Food, cozy dinner, hearty meal, spicy chili