Hearty Beef & Kidney Bean Chili
This Hearty Beef & Kidney Bean Chili is a classic comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with lean ground beef and fiber-rich kidney beans, it delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal in under an hour.
For 6 servings
Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess fat from the pot. Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, allowing the tomato paste to slightly caramelize.
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes, toasting the spices until aromatic.
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, and the rinsed and drained kidney beans. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Taste the chili and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If the chili is too thick, add a splash more beef broth or water; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a side of cornbread.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't skip draining the fat from the ground beef; it prevents the chili from becoming greasy and allows the spices to adhere better.
- 2Toast your spices: Cooking the chili powder, cumin, and other dry spices briefly with the aromatics helps to release their full flavor and aroma, significantly enhancing the chili's depth.
- 3Let it simmer: While this is a quick chili, allowing it to simmer for the full 20-25 minutes is crucial for the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- 4Customize your heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference, or add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the bell pepper for more kick.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian Chili
Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground crumbles, extra beans (like black beans or pinto beans), and/or diced mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Smoky Chipotle ChiliSmoky Chipotle Chili
Add 1-2 tablespoons of adobo sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo, or 1-2 minced chipotle peppers, along with the other spices for a deep, smoky heat.
Sweet & Spicy ChiliSweet & Spicy Chili
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar or a pinch of cocoa powder (unsweetened) along with the spices to add a subtle sweetness and richness that balances the heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Lean ground beef provides a significant source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
High in Fiber
Kidney beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Nutrient-Dense
This chili is packed with vitamins and minerals from the beef (iron, zinc, B vitamins) and vegetables (Vitamin C, potassium), supporting a healthy immune system and energy metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it as directed, cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
