Classic Homemade Chili – Bold, Hearty & Always a Hit!

There’s nothing like a pot of Classic Homemade Chili simmering on the stove to make your home feel extra cozy. This is my go-to recipe when I want something bold, comforting, and absolutely satisfying.

It’s packed with ground beef, tender beans, rich tomato flavor, and just the right amount of spice to warm you up from the inside out.

Whether I’m serving it for a casual family dinner, a game day gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this chili never fails to hit the spot. And the best part? It’s super customizable, so you can make it exactly the way you like.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Homemade Chili

🌶️ Hearty and flavorful, with the perfect chili seasoning
🥩 Protein-packed with ground beef and beans
🍅 Rich and tomatoey, with layers of slow-simmered flavor
⏱️ Simple ingredients, big comfort
🍽️ Perfect for leftovers, meal prep, or feeding a crowd

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth (or water)
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, avocado

How to Make Classic Homemade Chili

🧅 In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

🥩 Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

🌶️ Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast with the beef for about 1 minute for deeper flavor.

🍅 Add tomato paste and stir to coat the meat. Then pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, and broth. Stir everything together.

🔥 Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld.

🧀 Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

🌽 Add corn kernels for a pop of sweetness
🌶️ Stir in a dash of hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño for heat
🥕 Add finely chopped carrots for a touch of natural sweetness
🫘 Use different beans like pinto or white beans
🍗 Swap ground beef for chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat

Tips for the Best Chili

✔ Let the chili simmer low and slow for the best flavor
✔ Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your liking
✔ Make it a day ahead—chili gets better overnight
✔ Keep it thick or thin by adjusting the broth amount

Storage and Reheating

📦 Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days
❄️ Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
🔥 Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if too thick

Final Thoughts

This Classic Homemade Chili is everything comfort food should be—bold, hearty, and endlessly customizable. It’s a dish that always brings people together and fills the kitchen with the most irresistible aroma.

Whether you keep it simple or load it up with toppings, one thing’s for sure: this chili will be on repeat all season long!