When the weather turns cool, nothing feels better than a warm, hearty bowl of chili. I know you’re looking for that perfect comfort food, and I’ve got two great chili recipes that will definitely hit the spot. Whether you like a little kick or prefer the classic taste, these recipes are easy to make and full of flavor.
I want to share my favorite ways to make chili, complete with clear steps and helpful tips. Get ready to cook up some warmth in your kitchen!
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Smoky Chipotle Chili Recipe
This smoky chipotle chili is perfect if you love a little heat. I think it brings a wonderful warmth to any cold day.
The deep, rich flavors come from chipotle peppers, giving this chili a unique and inviting character.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Chipotle Chili
- Dried Chipotle Peppers: Using dried chipotles adds a deep, authentic smoky flavor that canned chipotles in adobo can’t quite match. Remember to rehydrate them in hot water before blending.
- Layering Spices: Don’t just dump all your spices in. Toast them lightly before adding liquids to really bring out their aromas. This makes a big difference.
- Low and Slow Simmering: This chili gets better the longer it simmers. Let it cook for at least 1-2 hours for all the flavors to mix well and deepen.
What You Need for Chipotle Chili
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 dried chipotle peppers, rehydrated and minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 30 mins prep, 90 mins cook🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make Chipotle Chili
Step 1: Brown the Meat & Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and rehydrated chipotle peppers, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Liquids & Spices
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and black beans. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer for Deep Flavor
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
📝 Final Note
This chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Hearty Classic Chili Recipe
This recipe is for a truly comforting bowl of classic chili, just like you remember from childhood. It’s a simple, robust meal that always hits the spot.
You can easily make this traditional chili your own by adjusting the spice level to your preference.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Classic Chili
- Good Quality Tomatoes: Using high-quality crushed or diced tomatoes makes a big difference in the final taste of your chili. They provide a rich base.
- Brown the Meat Well: Don’t rush this step! Browning your ground beef until it’s nicely caramelized adds a lot of depth to the chili’s flavor.
- Balance the Spices: Start with the suggested amounts of chili powder and cumin, then taste and adjust. You want a good balance, not too much of one flavor.
- A Touch of Sweetness: A pinch of sugar or a spoonful of ketchup can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and round out the flavors in your chili.
What You Need for Classic Chili
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
⏱️ Time: 25 mins prep, 60 mins cook🍽️ Yields: 8 servings
How to Make Classic Chili
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables & Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain the fat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Let Flavors Develop
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, or longer for even richer flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings.
📝 Final Note
Serve this chili with cornbread, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. It’s also great over hot dogs or baked potatoes!