Classic Beef and Bean Chili
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal, this chili is packed with lean ground beef, tender kidney beans, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a rich, smoky tomato and spice broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 75 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
TIPBrowning the beef well develops a deep, savory flavor base for the chili. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
TIPToasting the spices in the pot before adding liquids awakens their flavor and aroma. - 4
Step 4
- a.Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), the rinsed kidney beans, and 1 cup of water.
- b.Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- c.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- d.Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
TIPThe longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen. If you have time, let it go for up to 2 hours. - 5
Step 5
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water, but be mindful of the added sodium.
- 2Chili always tastes better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat for an even more flavorful meal.
- 3If the chili becomes too thick during simmering, add a splash more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- 4This chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrients.
vegetarianVegetarian
Omit the ground beef and add an extra can of black beans or pinto beans, along with 1 cup of diced sweet potatoes or mushrooms.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in a cup of cooked quinoa at the end or use a mix of different beans like pinto and black beans to boost the protein content.
quickQuick
If you're short on time, reduce the simmer time to 30 minutes. The flavor won't be as deep but it will still be delicious.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Lean ground beef and kidney beans provide a powerful combination of protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
Excellent Source of Fiber
With two cans of kidney beans and plenty of vegetables, this chili is packed with dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Rich in Iron
Beef is a great source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and helps prevent anemia and maintain energy levels.
Packed with Nutrients
This one-pot meal contains a variety of vitamins and minerals from tomatoes, onions, and peppers, including Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version of beef and bean chili can be very healthy. It's high in protein from the lean beef and fiber from the beans and vegetables, which helps with satiety and digestion. Using lean ground beef keeps the saturated fat content in check.