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Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a pot of Easy Homemade Chili simmering on the stove on a chilly evening—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. I’ve been making this Easy Homemade Chili for years, and it’s become my go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. What I love most is how simple it is to whip up without sacrificing that rich, hearty flavor that makes chili so irresistible.
In my experience, the key to the best Easy Homemade Chili is using fresh spices and letting it bubble away just long enough to meld all those delicious layers. Whether you’re a chili novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe will have you ditching the canned stuff for good. If you’re in the mood for more cozy meals, check out our Beef and Barley Soup Recipe or the Crockpot Chili Recipe for even more hearty inspiration. Let’s dive in and get you making your own pot of this easy homemade chili today—trust me, you’ll be hooked after the first bite.
Key Takeaways:
- Easy Homemade Chili is ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses pantry staples for maximum convenience without multiple store runs.
- Bursting with bold flavors from simple spices that make every spoonful satisfying.
- Adjust heat levels easily to suit your taste for a personalized Easy Homemade Chili.
- Stores beautifully for meal prep, keeping that fresh taste for days.
Why You’ll Adore This Easy Homemade Chili
Quick and Effortless Prep: You’ll spend more time enjoying than cooking with this Easy Homemade Chili. It’s straightforward steps mean even beginners can nail it without stress. Here’s the thing: who doesn’t love a meal that comes together in about 45 minutes?
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food: Using affordable ingredients like ground beef and canned beans, this recipe feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. I always feel good serving something hearty and homemade that warms everyone up. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table.
Customizable Spice Levels: Tailor the heat in your Easy Homemade Chili to match your mood—mild for the kids or fiery for spice lovers. What I find interesting is how a dash more chili powder can transform it entirely. You control the flavor profile every time.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this Easy Homemade Chili keeps you full and satisfied. It’s a sneaky way to get more beans and tomatoes into your diet. Plus, it freezes like a dream for future meals—pure convenience!
Essential Ingredients for Easy Homemade Chili
Ground Beef: The star protein in this Easy Homemade Chili, lean ground beef adds that savory depth without excess fat. I prefer 85% lean for the perfect balance of juiciness. It browns beautifully, infusing the whole pot with rich, meaty flavor that makes every bite comforting.
Kidney Beans: These hearty beans provide texture and fiber, bulking up your Easy Homemade Chili nicely. Canned ones are a lifesaver for speed, but rinsing them removes extra sodium. They absorb the spices so well, becoming tender and flavorful in the simmer.
Chili Powder and Cumin: The spice duo that defines Easy Homemade Chili’s bold taste. Chili powder brings smoky heat, while cumin adds an earthy warmth. In my experience, fresh ground spices make all the difference—don’t skip toasting them lightly for extra aroma.
How to Make Easy Homemade Chili
Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding a tablespoon of oil— this is where the magic of Easy Homemade Chili begins. Crumble in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned, about 5-7 minutes; drain any excess fat for a lighter result. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, releasing those savory scents that fill your kitchen. Season with salt and pepper right away to build layers of flavor. Now, you might be thinking it’s too simple, but this step sets the foundation for the entire dish.
Add Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of oregano, letting them bloom in the residual heat for about a minute—the aroma is incredible, like a spice market in your home. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, scraping up any browned bits from the pot bottom for extra depth. Add beef broth to loosen it up, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Watch as the colors deepen and the mixture thickens slightly; this is the heart of your Easy Homemade Chili taking shape. Give it a taste here and adjust spices if needed—timing is key to avoid overcooking.
Simmer with Beans and Finish
Drain and rinse the kidney beans before folding them into the pot, allowing them to heat through without turning mushy—about 20-25 minutes of low simmer does the trick. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and let the flavors meld into that perfect Easy Homemade Chili consistency. For a touch more complexity, add a square of dark chocolate toward the end; it melts in seamlessly. The result? A thick, spoonable chili that’s hearty and inviting. If you’re looking for a slower version, try our Crockpot Chili Recipe for hands-off ease.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat, shredded cheddar for topping
Easy Homemade Chili Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
- Add drained kidney beans. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream or cornbread.
Pro Tips for the Best Easy Homemade Chili
Toast Your Spices: Always bloom the chili powder and cumin in the hot pot first—it unlocks their full flavor potential without burning.
Don’t Skip the Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness and achieve that perfect saucy texture in your chili.
Rest Before Serving: Let your Easy Homemade Chili sit off the heat for 5 minutes; the flavors intensify beautifully.
You Must Know
- This Easy Homemade Chili gets even better the next day as flavors deepen overnight.
- It’s naturally gluten-free, but check labels on canned goods for hidden additives.
- Portion control is easy—aim for 1.5 cups per serving for balanced nutrition.
- Vegetarian swap: Use lentils instead of beef for a plant-based twist.
How to Store Easy Homemade Chili
Your Easy Homemade Chili keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, maintaining its robust flavors. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Let’s be honest, it’s often even tastier as leftovers.
Customizing Your Easy Homemade Chili
Make it vegetarian by swapping beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans, keeping the essence of Easy Homemade Chili intact. For a milder version, reduce chili powder and add bell peppers for sweetness; spice lovers can amp up with jalapeños. If you’re into Tex-Mex vibes, incorporate corn or try our Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe elements like extra cheddar. Experiment freely—the base is forgiving and endlessly adaptable to your pantry.
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Chili
Pair your Easy Homemade Chili with fluffy cornbread or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that flavorful sauce. A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely. For drinks, go with a cold beer or iced tea to balance the spices. Toppings like avocado, cilantro, and sour cream add fresh contrast—it’s all about that perfect bowl setup.
Easy Homemade Chili
The BEST Homemade Chili recipe made with ground beef and sausage, beans, and a blend of bold spices, simmered to rich perfection. Make it on the stove or slow cooker.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 02 1 large onion (, diced)
- 03 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 04 1 pound ground pork sausage (, (I use Jimmy Dean))
- 05 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 06 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes (, petite, undrained)
- 07 4 cups tomato juice (*)
- 08 1 cup ketchup
- 09 2 15 ounce cans pinto beans (, undrained)
- 10 1 16 ounce can kidney beans (, undrained)
- 11 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar
- 12 3 Tablespoons chili powder
- 13 ¾ teaspoon garlic salt
- 14 ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 15 1 teaspoon paprika
- 16 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 17 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (, (or more if you want it spicier))
- 18 cornmeal (to thicken, if desired)
- 19 shredded cheddar cheese (, optional)
- 20 sour cream (, optional)
Instructions
Saute onion: Add the olive oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Brown meat: Add ground beef and sausage to the pot and cook, breaking apart into small pieces with a meat chopper or wooden spoon until browned. Remove the grease.
Add the vinegar and cook for 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato juice, ketchup, beans, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne.
Simmer: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring, then reduce the heat and simmer over medium-low heat for at least one hour, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened. The more it simmers, the thicker and more flavorful it will be! (and if you'd like it even thicker, stir in a sprinkle of cornmeal).
Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Homemade Chili
Can I make Easy Homemade Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely, this Easy Homemade Chili is ideal for make-ahead meals—prepare it up to two days in advance and reheat gently. The flavors actually improve with a rest in the fridge. Just store it properly to keep it fresh.
How long does Easy Homemade Chili last in the fridge?
Your Easy Homemade Chili stays good for 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container at or below 40°F. Beyond that, freeze it to extend enjoyment. Always check for off smells before reheating.
Is Easy Homemade Chili spicy?
It has a mild to medium kick depending on your chili powder, but you can dial it back easily. I recommend starting low and tasting as you go. For extra heat, add fresh chiles.
Can I use turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey works great in Easy Homemade Chili for a leaner option without losing heartiness. Brown it just like beef and follow the rest of the steps. It might need a touch more seasoning to match the richness.
What’s the best way to thicken Easy Homemade Chili?
Simmer longer uncovered to reduce liquids naturally, or mash some beans for body. Avoid flour if you want it gluten-free. This keeps your Easy Homemade Chili authentic and thick.
How do I make vegan Easy Homemade Chili?
Swap beef for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth—your Easy Homemade Chili will still be packed with flavor. Add textured vegetable protein for that meaty bite if desired. It’s a crowd-pleaser either way; see our Easy Black Bean Soup Recipe for more bean ideas.
Can kids eat this Easy Homemade Chili?
With adjustments, yes—omit cayenne and use less chili powder for a kid-friendly version. Serve with mild toppings like cheese. They often love the fun, customizable aspect.
Does Easy Homemade Chili freeze well?
Perfectly—it freezes for up to three months in portions. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove. For more freezing tips, check similar recipes like our Hamburger Stew Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the ultimate guide to creating your own pot of Easy Homemade Chili that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. From the first sizzle to the last satisfying bite, this recipe delivers comfort without the fuss. I encourage you to give it a try this weekend; share your tweaks in the comments and tag us in your creations. Happy cooking!