Classic Beef Chili with Beans and Tomatoes is a hearty American comfort food made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, and warm spices. This easy one-pot meal is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner, game day, or a cold evening.
The combination of seasoned beef, tender beans, and a rich tomato base creates a satisfying chili that can be served with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the pot.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using.
Cook for about 1–2 minutes while stirring.
This short cooking step helps release the flavor of the spices.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth.
Add the bay leaf and stir everything together.
Bring the chili to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Chili
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially with a lid.
Let the chili simmer for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The longer it simmers, the more the flavors have a chance to develop.
If the chili becomes too thick, add a small amount of beef broth or water.
6. Adjust the Seasoning
Remove the bay leaf.
Taste the chili and adjust the salt, black pepper, or chili powder according to your preference.
Let the chili rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Beef Chili
Brown the Beef Well
Allowing the beef to brown properly adds a deeper savory flavor to the chili.
Don't Rush the Simmering
A longer, gentle simmer helps the tomatoes, beef, beans, and spices develop a richer flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level
For mild chili, leave out the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add extra cayenne, crushed red pepper, or your favorite hot pepper.
Use Different Beans
Kidney beans are classic, but you can also use black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of different beans.
Make It Ahead
Chili often tastes even better the next day because the flavors have more time to blend together.
Topping Ideas
Classic beef chili can be served with a variety of toppings.
Try:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- JalapeƱos
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Chopped red onion
For a creamy homemade topping, you can also try our How to Make Homemade Sour Cream.
What to Serve With Beef Chili
Chili is filling on its own, but several side dishes pair especially well with it.
Serve it with:
- Cornbread
- Garlic bread
- Green salad
- Baked potatoes
- Tortilla chips
- Steamed vegetables
- Rice
Beef Chili Variations
Texas-Style Beef Chili
For a version inspired by Texas chili, reduce or omit the beans and focus on beef, tomatoes, peppers, and spices.
Three-Bean Chili
Replace some of the kidney beans with black beans and pinto beans for a hearty three-bean version.
Spicy Beef Chili
Add jalapeƱos, cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper, or a little hot sauce for extra heat.
Cheesy Chili
Top each serving with plenty of shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good beef chili?
A good chili combines browned beef, flavorful tomatoes, beans, aromatic vegetables, and balanced spices. Slow simmering also helps develop a richer flavor.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey can replace the beef if you prefer a lighter version. The flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make chili without beans?
Yes. Beans can be omitted if you prefer a meat-focused chili.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes. Prepare the chili ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.
How long does beef chili last in the refrigerator?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container and use it within a few days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze beef chili?
Yes. Beef chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, place it in freezer-safe containers, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
More American Comfort Food
If you enjoy classic American comfort food, explore our Classic American Meatloaf Recipe.
For another hearty American recipe, try our Classic New England Clam Chowder.
You can also discover more American dishes in 10 Popular American Chicken Dishes.
Recipe Summary
Final Thoughts
Classic Beef Chili with Beans and Tomatoes is a simple and satisfying American comfort food that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender beans, tomatoes, and aromatic spices in one pot.
It is easy to customize with different beans, toppings, and spice levels, making it a practical recipe for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Serve it hot with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or warm cornbread for a comforting homemade meal.