This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a huge pot of delicious chili ready to serve to your family and friends in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, diced avocado
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, frozen corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, ladled into bowls and topped with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or diced avocado.
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground meat and add extra beans or diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- To make it spicy, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños.
- Make ahead and freeze portions for easy meals later on. Chili often tastes even better after it’s been reheated!
- Experiment with different types of beans or add in some diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick.
- Serve with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
