Old Fashioned Chili

Old Fashioned Chili is a timeless comfort food that’s packed with flavor and heartiness. This classic recipe features a robust blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices that create a warm and inviting dish perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. The chunky texture combined with the rich, savory aroma will fill your home with a sense of nostalgia, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings or casual get-togethers. You’ll enjoy not only the simplicity of its preparation but also the satisfaction of serving a meal that brings everyone to the table.

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and hearty ingredients makes this chili a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any chilly night.
2. Family-Friendly Appeal: With familiar ingredients that kids and adults alike love, this chili is a surefire hit for family dinners.
3. Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that even novice cooks can whip up a pot of delicious chili without stress.
4. Busy Weeknight Convenience: It cooks up in just over an hour, making it a quick and satisfying option for those bustling weeknight schedules.
5. Leftover Potential: Chili only gets better with time, so you’re guaranteed to have tasty leftovers that can be enjoyed on the following days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 cup beef broth
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Ingredient Notes

• Ground Beef: Aim for ground beef with a fat content of around 80%. This balance provides enough flavor while preventing the dish from becoming overly greasy. Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning for a cleaner tasting chili.
• Beans: Kidney beans are traditional but feel free to mix in pinto beans or even black beans for additional texture and flavor.
• Spices: Fresh spices can dramatically enhance the flavor profile. Ensure your spices are fresh for the most aromatic result.
• Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes offer convenience and depth. Alternatively, using freshly diced tomatoes can add a bright, fresh flavor to your chili.

Equipment

• Large pot or dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Can opener
• Knife and cutting board

How to Make Old Fashioned Chili

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s well browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper while cooking for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onions, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. This step adds a depth of flavor to your chili.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and remaining salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors meld together, making it taste even better.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

After simmering, taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Feel free to add more chili powder for heat or additional salt to enhance the flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chili hot in bowls, topping with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkling of chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy the comforting delight of Old Fashioned Chili with your family!

Tips for the Best Results

1. Browning the Meat: Don’t rush the browning process; proper browning caramelizes the meat, enhancing the overall flavor.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier dish.
3. Flavor Depth: For deeper flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or dark chocolate while simmering—this intensifies the richness.
4. Texture Matters: If your chili seems too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Garnishing: A touch of fresh cilantro or parsley can brighten the flavors when added just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Alternatives: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or hit up plant-based ground for a vegetarian version.
• Beans: Use black beans, chickpeas, or even lentils as alternatives; just ensure they’re cooked (if using dried) before adding to the chili.
• Vegetables: Add corn, zucchini, or celery to increase nutrition and flavor diversity.
• Spice Adjustments: Experiment with different chili powders, such as chipotle or ancho, to create a unique flavor profile tailored to your taste.

What to Serve With Old Fashioned Chili

Old Fashioned Chili is delightful on its own, but pairing it with cornbread, a side salad, or crispy tortilla chips enhances the experience. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing avocado salad or with warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of chili goodness.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator

Freezer

Old Fashioned Chili freezes well for up to 3 months. For the best results, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the chili overnight in the fridge if frozen, then transfer to a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions; just cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

As you dive into making this flavorful Old Fashioned Chili, consider exploring more comforting recipes on Supper Grove. With a variety of ground beef dishes and family-friendly meals on offer, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for delicious, everyday cooking.