Hearty Beef Chili with Cheddar Cheese Topping

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Hearty Beef Chili is the perfect dish for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and satisfying, or for when game day rolls around and you need a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is loaded with rich flavors, tender beef, and hearty beans, all topped with a melty layer of cheddar cheese that takes it over the top. Get ready to dig into a bowl of comfort that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hearty Beef Chili is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeks. Each spoonful is a combination of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

• Rich and Flavorful: A blend of spices and ingredients creates a mouthwatering depth of flavor.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this chili approachable for any home cook.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and store it for later cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Hearty Beef Chili

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and onions with the spices.
5. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. After 30 minutes, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Once ready, serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese.

Tips for the Best Results

• For extra depth of flavor, let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving.
• If you like it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking.
• Experiment with different types of beans or add corn for a sweet crunch.

Easy Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies.
• Use black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
• For a smoky flavor, incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

What to Serve With It

• Freshly baked cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Sour cream and fresh cilantro to garnish.

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

Recipe Card