There’s just something about a bowl of steaming hot chili that warms you from the inside out.
This Classic Beef Chili is a go-to in my kitchen when the weather cools down or I just want something hearty, flavorful, and nourishing—all in one pot.
It’s rich with beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices, and best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make.
Whether for a weeknight dinner or game day crowd, this chili always hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One pot, no fuss – Everything simmers together beautifully.
Loaded with flavor – Chili powder, cumin, paprika—it’s a spice lover’s dream.
Perfect texture – Chunky beans, tender beef, and thick tomato sauce.
Make ahead & meal prep friendly – Tastes even better the next day.
Family-friendly – Customize toppings for everyone’s taste.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef – I use 15% fat for extra flavor and richness.
Pinto & kidney beans – Classic duo that adds texture and heartiness.
Tomato trio – Tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and paste for a deep tomato base.
Maple syrup – Just a touch for balance and depth.
Beef broth – Adds extra savoriness and thins the chili just right.
Spice blend – Chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika—it’s bold and warming.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Brown the beef well – Adds flavor and helps build the base of the chili.
Use canned beans for speed – Just drain and rinse them first.
Simmer to thicken – Letting it cook a little longer deepens the flavor.
Taste and adjust – Spice levels vary—add more heat or salt if needed.
Top it your way – Cheese, sour cream, scallions, or crushed chips—it’s all welcome.
How to Make Classic Beef Chili
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic.
Cook for 7–10 minutes, breaking up the meat, until browned and cooked through.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Stir in the pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and maple syrup.
Mix well.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Broth
Sprinkle in chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the broth and stir everything to combine.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve and Top
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorites—shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or tortilla chips.
What to Serve It With
Cornbread or crusty sourdough
Tortilla chips or saltines for crunch
A fresh green salad
Baked sweet potatoes for a hearty pairing
Jalapeño cheddar biscuits for spice lovers
Variations / Substitutions
Swap the protein – Ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
Add veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn add color and nutrients.
Make it spicy – Add cayenne or hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Vegetarian version – Omit the beef and double the beans.
Low-sodium tip – Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Reheat – Warm on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freeze – Let cool, then portion and freeze up to 3 months.
Batch cook tip – Make a double batch and freeze half for later.
FAQs
Can I use different beans?
Yes! Black beans, cannellini, or great northern beans all work well.
How do I make it thicker?
Simmer uncovered longer or mash a few beans into the mix.
Is maple syrup necessary?
It balances the acidity of tomatoes, but you can omit or use a pinch of sugar.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes—brown the beef first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a large enough pot and adjust seasoning to taste.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Stovetop works best for even heating, but microwave is fine too.
Can I make this chili dairy-free?
Yes, just skip toppings like cheese or sour cream, or use plant-based alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Beef Chili is comfort in a bowl—rich, warming, and full of bold flavor.
It’s the kind of meal you can throw together in under an hour, yet it tastes like it simmered all day.
Whether you serve it on a cozy night in or at a casual get-together, it always satisfies.
Classic Beef Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef, onion, and garlic.
- Sauté 7–10 minutes until beef is browned.
- Stir in beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and maple syrup.
- Add chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and broth.
- Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer 10–15 minutes to thicken.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/classic-beef-chili/
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, let the chili simmer longer—up to 45 minutes—adding a splash more broth if it gets too thick.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
- This recipe freezes beautifully—cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.