Spicy Beef Chili Recipe – A Hearty & Flavorful Delight

Chili is the ultimate comfort food, loved for its bold flavors, rich texture, and satisfying heat. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a game-day feast, or a meal prep staple, a Spicy Beef Chili Recipe delivers the perfect balance of spice and savory goodness. This recipe is packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a robust blend of spices to create a chili that’s both fiery and delicious. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to making the best homemade spicy beef chili!

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 900mg

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 6

Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Ladle

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth

Spices & Seasonings:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar (balances acidity)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics & Brown Beef

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat if needed, then add diced onions and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes & Broth

5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato paste.
6. Stir to combine, ensuring the tomato paste is evenly distributed.
7. Add beef broth and mix well.

Step 3: Add Beans & Seasonings

8. Stir in drained kidney beans and black beans.
9. Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
10. Mix everything well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer for Maximum Flavor

11. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
12. Cover and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
13. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

14. Remove from heat and let the chili rest for about 10 minutes.
15. Ladle into bowls and top with preferred garnishes.
16. Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips!

Tips for the Best Spicy Beef Chili

• For More Heat: Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced fresh jalapeños.
• For a Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes.
• For Depth of Flavor: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end enhances the taste.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Chili tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Spicy Beef Chili Recipe is the ultimate blend of spice, heartiness, and bold flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold evening or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Adjust the spice levels to your liking and enjoy this classic comfort dish with your favorite toppings! Happy cooking!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.