Chili is a versatile, satisfying dish that has earned its place as a staple in kitchens around the world. Whether it’s a chilly day, a family gathering, or a casual meal, chili can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. This blog post will walk you through a tried-and-true chili recipe, guaranteed to become your go-to option when you’re looking for a dish packed with flavor and warmth.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between a rich, meaty base and a hearty blend of beans and spices. It can be easily made in a crock pot for convenience or on the stovetop if you’re short on time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 TBSP Olive Oil
• 1 Medium Onion (Chopped)
• 1 Bell Pepper (Chopped)
• 1 lb. Ground Chuck (Brown & Drain)
• 2 Cloves Garlic (Pressed)
• 2 – 14.5 oz. Cans Diced Tomatoes
• 1 – 16 oz. Can Black Beans (Drained and Rinsed)
• 2 – 16 oz. Cans Kidney Beans (Drained and Rinsed)
• 1 – 8 oz. Can Tomato Sauce
• 1 TSP Freeze-Dried Basil
• 1/2 TSP Black Pepper & 1 TSP Salt
• 3 TBSP Chili Powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to begin cooking. This chili can be made using either a crock pot or stovetop, depending on your schedule. Both methods yield equally delicious results.

Crock Pot Method

If you’re looking for a hands-off approach, the crock pot method is ideal. You can set it and forget it while still achieving a well-developed flavor.

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
   • The key here is to gently sauté the vegetables to release their natural sugars and enhance their flavor without browning them too much.
2. Brown the Ground Chuck:
   • Once the vegetables are cooked, push them to the side of the skillet and add the ground chuck. Cook the beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
   • Make sure no pink remains in the beef, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain the excess grease to avoid an overly oily chili.
3. Transfer to the Crock Pot:
   • After draining the beef, transfer it along with the cooked vegetables to the crock pot.
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
   • Now, add the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, garlic, basil, salt, black pepper, and chili powder to the crock pot. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Cook the Chili:
   • Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and flavorful chili.
   • You can adjust the cooking time based on your specific crock pot’s temperature settings. Some may cook hotter or slower than others, so it’s best to use your judgment to ensure the chili is hot and bubbling before serving.

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Stovetop Method

If you prefer a quicker method or don’t have a crock pot, the stovetop method is just as effective, producing a delicious chili in a shorter time frame.

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Brown the Ground Chuck:
   • Add the ground chuck to the same pot. Cook until no pink remains, breaking it into smaller pieces as it browns. Drain the grease.
3. Combine and Simmer:
   • Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, garlic, basil, salt, black pepper, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor develops. Be sure to check for seasoning, adding more salt or chili powder if needed.

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Serving Suggestions

This chili is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of condiments and sides, allowing you to customize it based on personal preferences.

• Toppings: Some favorite chili toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips. For a little extra heat, you can always add hot sauce or diced chilis.
• Sides: This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You could also serve it with a light salad to add a refreshing element to the meal.

Storage and Leftovers

One of the best things about chili is that it tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together, making leftovers incredibly flavorful.

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: Chili also freezes exceptionally well. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the chili overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why This Recipe Works

This chili recipe is beloved because it strikes the perfect balance between spices and hearty ingredients. The use of ground chuck ensures a flavorful base, while the blend of beans provides texture and protein. The combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce gives the chili a rich, slightly acidic backdrop that pairs well with the chili powder and spices.

The recipe’s flexibility is also a huge plus. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding hot sauce. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for personal preferences, whether you want to add more vegetables, swap out the ground chuck for turkey, or add different types of beans.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this chili recipe is approachable, flavorful, and sure to impress. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. The ingredients are simple, the process is straightforward, and the results are undeniably delicious.

Next time you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting dish, give this chili recipe a try. And don’t be afraid to make it your own—adjust the spices, experiment with toppings, or pair it with your favorite side dish. However you choose to enjoy it, this chili is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

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