Traditional Beef Chili Recipe

Traditional Beef Chili Recipe (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Introduction

Get ready to cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of traditional beef chili that’s sure to become a family favorite! This classic recipe is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day, a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, or simply a delicious way to use up leftover beef, this traditional beef chili recipe has got you covered.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of chili and share our secrets for making the perfect pot. From selecting the right ingredients to expert tips for achieving that rich, velvety texture, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

So grab your apron, get ready to simmer, and let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio works best)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color), diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, let’s get started on the chili!

1. **Brown the ground beef**: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. **Soften the onions and garlic**: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize.
3. **Add the bell peppers**: Next, add the diced bell peppers to the pot and cook until they’re tender.
4. **Spice it up!**: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
5. **Add the canned goods**: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, water, tomato paste, brown sugar, and smoked paprika (if using) to the pot. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. **Let it simmer!**: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
7. **Season to taste**: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or any other spices you like.

Pro Tips for Success

Want your traditional beef chili recipe to really shine? Here are a few pro tips to help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors:

* **Don’t overcook the ground beef**: Brown it just until it’s cooked through, then remove it from heat. This will prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
* **Use a mixture of spices**: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice blends or add your own favorite seasonings to give the chili a unique flavor.
* **Let it rest**: After simmering for 30-45 minutes, let the chili rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken further.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know you’ve got questions! Here are some answers to common FAQs about this traditional beef chili recipe:

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.

Q: How long can I store leftover chili?
A: Cooked chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it until hot and bubbly before serving.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the ground beef and cook the onions and bell peppers as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.