There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chili, especially when the weather turns cool. This hearty dish, packed with savory beef, tender beans, and a blend of rich spices, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Learning How To Make Chili from scratch is easier than you might think, and the result is far superior to anything you’ll find in a can. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients and straightforward steps to bring you a comforting and flavorful chili that’s perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy weeknights.
Homemade Chili Ingredients: Your Shopping List
To embark on your chili-making adventure, you’ll need to gather these key ingredients. Quality ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste, so choose wisely!
- Ground Beef: The heart of this chili is a pound of ground beef. For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground chuck, which has a good balance of meat and fat. If you prefer a leaner option, ground sirloin or even ground turkey can be substituted. For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground sausage.
- Onion: A medium-sized yellow onion forms the aromatic base of our chili. Diced onions sautéed with the beef release their sweetness and add depth to the overall flavor profile. White or sweet onions can also be used depending on your preference.
- Canned Tomato Sauce: A 15-ounce can of tomato sauce provides the liquid base and tomato flavor. Ensure you choose a good quality tomato sauce for the best taste.
- Canned Stewed Tomatoes: A 14.5-ounce can of stewed tomatoes adds texture and chunkiness to the chili. Diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can be used as alternatives, depending on your desired consistency. If you like a smoother chili, crushed tomatoes are a great choice.
- Kidney Beans: A 15-ounce can of kidney beans is classic in chili, contributing a creamy texture and earthy flavor. Feel free to experiment with other types of beans like black beans, pinto beans, or even a mix of beans for a more complex flavor. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Chili Powder: Chili powder is the star spice in chili, providing that signature warm and slightly spicy flavor. Use about 2-3 tablespoons, adjusting to your spice preference. Different chili powders vary in heat and flavor, so experiment to find your favorite.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth. About 1 teaspoon is usually sufficient, but fresh garlic (minced) can also be used for a more pungent garlic flavor (about 2-3 cloves).
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and adjust to taste as you cook.
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A bowl of hearty homemade chili, topped with cheese and ready to be enjoyed with tortilla chips.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Homemade Chili
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps of how to make chili at home:
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Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef and cook until the onion becomes softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Cooking the onion with the beef infuses the meat with flavor and creates a flavorful base for the chili.
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Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce and stewed tomatoes. Stir in the kidney beans, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
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Simmer for Flavor Development: Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer, more developed flavor. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating that classic chili taste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors will deepen and intensify.
Storing Your Homemade Chili: Keeping it Fresh
One of the great things about chili is that it tastes even better the next day! Knowing how to store chili properly ensures you can enjoy leftovers safely and deliciously.
- Refrigerator Storage: Allow the chili to cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature first to avoid raising the temperature inside your fridge and potentially spoiling other food.
- Freezer Storage: For longer storage, chili freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Chili can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Easy homemade chili simmering in a pot, ready to be served.
Tips for the Best Homemade Chili
To elevate your chili from good to great, consider these helpful tips:
- Longer Simmering Time: While 15 minutes is sufficient, simmering your chili for a longer period (1-2 hours) will significantly enhance the flavor. Low and slow cooking allows the spices to fully bloom and the flavors to deepen.
- Spice it Up (or Down): Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spiciness. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder chili, start with less chili powder and taste as you go.
- Toppings Galore: Chili is all about the toppings! Set up a topping bar with shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack), sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, diced red onions, jalapenos, avocado, cilantro, and tortilla chips or oyster crackers.
- Serve it Right: Classic chili pairings include cornbread, crackers, rice, or a side salad. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro are always welcome additions.
- Experiment with Variations: Once you master the basic recipe, feel free to experiment! Try adding different types of beans, vegetables (like bell peppers or corn), or even a touch of cocoa powder for a deeper, richer flavor. Vegetarian chili, white chicken chili, and spicy chili are all delicious variations to explore.
Learning how to make chili is a rewarding culinary skill. With this easy recipe and helpful tips, you’ll be whipping up a pot of delicious homemade chili in no time. Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and comfort that only a homemade bowl of chili can provide!
