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Chili is more than just a dish; it's a warm hug in a bowl, a celebration of flavors that brings people together. For many, the mere mention of chili conjures up images of cozy nights spent around the dinner table, laughter filling the air as the savory aroma wafts through the house. Among the myriad variations of this beloved comfort food, Hearty Beef & Bean Chili stands out as a classic that perfectly embodies the essence of what chili should be: rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Savory Beef & Bean Chili

Warm up your evenings with a bowl of Hearty Beef & Bean Chili, a beloved comfort food that brings friends and family together. This classic recipe features tender ground beef, protein-packed beans, and a medley of spices, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or meal prep, it's easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Plus, it's even better the next day, making leftovers a treat! Discover how to make this flavorful chili and enjoy a nourishing meal that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

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

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, including juice

2 cups beef broth

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, jalapeños, avocado slices

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring until fragrant.

    Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the pot, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes, or until the meat is browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it to ensure a leaner chili.

      Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and allow the spices to toast for about 2 minutes, which enhances their flavor.

        Incorporate Beans and Tomatoes: Carefully add the rinsed kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well combined.

          Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot partially and let the chili simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the chili thickens too much, feel free to stir in additional beef broth or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

            Taste and Adjust: After the simmering time, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer more heat, add additional cayenne or chili powder.

              Serve: Ladle the hearty chili into bowls and encourage everyone to personalize their servings with optional toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, zesty lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, or creamy avocado slices for an extra touch.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

                  Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the chili in colorful bowls and arrange the toppings on a platter so guests can build their own perfect chili bowl. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color!