Spicy Beef Chili Kidney Beans (Printer-friendly)

Robust blend of beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices for hearty comfort.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)

→ Beans

06 - 2 cans kidney beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed

→ Tomatoes & Liquids

07 - 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz)
08 - 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
09 - 1 cup beef broth or water

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp chili powder
11 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
12 - 1 tsp ground cumin
13 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
14 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
15 - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
16 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Mix in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to release aromas.
04 - Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze and incorporate browned bits into the mixture.
05 - Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Stir in drained kidney beans and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until chili thickens to desired consistency.
07 - Taste and modify seasoning as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar, or sliced green onions.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • This chili balances bold spices with comforting textures, making it feel like a little secret worth sharing with friends.
  • It became a favorite because it is hearty enough for gatherings yet easy enough for a weeknight meal.
02 -
  • Draining the excess fat after browning the beef keeps the chili from getting greasy but still rich in flavor.
  • Letting the chili simmer uncovered after adding beans is key to achieving that perfect thickness and intensity of flavor.
03 -
  • Using smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that truly elevates the dish beyond a basic chili.
  • Don’t rush the simmering process; patience helps the flavors come together beautifully.

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