The Best Classic Chili Recipe

Published on: December 20, 2025

A steaming bowl of a hearty classic chili recipe, garnished with fresh cilantro, on a bright kitchen counter.

Warm up with a bowl of comforting, hearty classic chili recipe! This beloved dish brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying meal. My recipe highlights easy steps, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Get ready to create an authentic, flavorful classic chili that everyone will adore. Let’s start cooking this fantastic meal together!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Classic Chili

You’ll love the rich, comforting, authentic flavor that makes this chili truly special.
The simple, straightforward preparation means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, serving a crowd with ease.
This recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences, from mild to extra spicy.
You get a truly hearty, satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

To make this delicious classic chili recipe, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fresh items. Using quality ingredients ensures the best flavor. Always measure precisely for consistent results.

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 pound 90% lean ground beef
2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder*
2 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper** (optional)
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 (15 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes
1 (16 oz.) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce

Notes & Substitutions

Chili powder blend: Most store-bought chili powder is a mix of ground chiles, cumin, oregano, and garlic.
To understand the composition of chili powder, a popular spice blend often includes dried, pulverized chili peppers along with other spices such as cumin, garlic powder, and oregano, as detailed by Wikipedia’s entry on Chili powder.

Use a good quality one for the best taste.
Ground beef alternatives: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. You can also mix ground pork for added richness in your classic chili.
Tomato varieties: Diced tomatoes offer texture, but crushed tomatoes create a smoother base. Feel free to use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky depth.
Bean choices: While kidney beans are classic, pinto or black beans also work wonderfully. Ensure they are drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium.
Spice level adjustments: Omit cayenne for a mild chili. For more heat, add an extra pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce at the end.

Equipment

Gathering your tools beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. You won’t need many specialized items for this classic chili recipe.

Large soup pot or Dutch oven (5-6 quart)
Wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board
Can opener

Instructions

Creating this easy classic chili recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a perfect batch. This method ensures maximum flavor and a tender texture every time.

Prep Ingredients: Dice the yellow onion. Gather and measure all your spices, broth, and canned goods. This streamlines the cooking process.
Sauté Onions: Add the olive oil to a large soup pot and place it over medium-high heat for two minutes. Add the diced onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent.
Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot with the onions. Break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until the beef is thoroughly browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep your classic chili from being greasy.
Add Spices and Aromatics: Add the chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to the browned beef and onions. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and fragrant, about 1 minute. This step builds a foundational flavor for your delicious classic chili dish.
Combine Liquids and Beans: Pour in the beef broth, petite diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained and rinsed kidney beans, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring no ingredients are stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Simmer for Flavor: Bring the liquid to a low boil over medium-high heat. Then, reduce the heat to low to medium-low to gently simmer the chili. Allow it to simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage the flavors to meld. This slow simmering is key to a robust classic chili recipe.
Rest and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat once it’s finished simmering. Let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the flavors to deepen even further and the chili to slightly thicken. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Proper Browning: Don’t rush browning the beef. A good sear adds rich, savory flavor to your chili.
Layer Spices: Toasting your spices with the beef and tomato paste before adding liquids enhances their aroma and depth.
Slow Simmering: The long, slow simmer is crucial for melding flavors. It transforms individual ingredients into a harmonious and complex classic chili.
Adjust Consistency: If your chili is too thick, add a splash more beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered a bit longer.
Chili Too Spicy: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese to each bowl. A touch of extra sugar can also help balance the heat.
Chili Too Bland: Stir in an extra pinch of salt, a dash of garlic powder, or a bit more chili powder and cumin. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavors of your classic chili recipe.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile classic chili recipe is perfect for many occasions. Make it your own with these ideas.

Classic Serving Suggestions: Serve your classic chili with warm, buttery cornbread on the side. It’s a match made in heaven!
Favorite Chili Topping Ideas: Offer a topping bar with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or crushed corn chips.
Proper Storage Guidelines: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For comprehensive advice on safely handling and storing cooked foods like chili, the USDA provides valuable guidelines.
Freezing and Reheating: Chili freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Protein Variations: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of ground pork and beef. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground crumbles.
Bean or No-Bean Options: If you prefer chili without beans, simply omit them. For more beans, add an extra can of your favorite type.
Spicier Chili: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a hotter chili powder also works.

Nutrition Information

Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal. Nutrition information is an estimate based on ingredients and preparation.

Disclaimer: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. This information is provided for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.

A single serving of this hearty classic chili offers a great source of protein and fiber. It helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Nutrient	Amount (Estimated per serving)
Calories	350-400
Protein	25-30g
Fat	15-20g
Carbs	25-30g
Fiber	8-10g

FAQ

Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it a day in advance and reheat.
Can I freeze leftover chili? Yes, chili freezes very well. Store cooled chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months for a convenient future meal.
What makes chili taste better? Slow simmering allows flavors to deepen. Proper browning of meat and layering spices also contribute to a great-tasting classic chili recipe.
How to thicken chili? Simmer your chili uncovered for a longer period to reduce liquid. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water and stir it into the simmering chili.
Why drain ground beef? Draining excess fat prevents your chili from becoming greasy. This results in a cleaner, richer flavor without an oily texture.
Are beans necessary for classic chili? Some chili purists argue against beans, but they are common in many traditional recipes. It truly comes down to personal preference!

Conclusion

This classic chili recipe is a testament to simple, delicious cooking. Its rich flavors and comforting warmth make it a perfect meal for any occasion. With straightforward steps, you can easily create an authentic, hearty dish that tastes like it simmered all day. Share this incredible classic chili recipe with your loved ones and savor every spoonful. Enjoy making memories around the table with this timeless favorite!