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The Best Ever Hearty Weeknight Chili

Close-up of a dark bowl filled with rich, thick, hearty chili featuring ground meat and kidney beans.

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This recipe makes a thick, flavorful ground beef and bean chili that you can cook quickly on the stovetop or slowly in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together well.
  5. Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For best flavor, simmer for 1 hour.
  6. If using a slow cooker, transfer the browned meat and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of simmering to allow some liquid to evaporate.
  • Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
  • This chili freezes well for future meals.

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