🌶️🍲 Classic Stovetop Chili
📋 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 large onion, diced
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or plant-based alternative)
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1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
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1 (15 oz) can black beans or pinto beans, drained
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2–3 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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Optional: pinch of sugar, red pepper flakes, or cocoa powder
👩🍳 Instructions
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Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. -
Brown the meat
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed. -
Season and build flavor
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. -
Simmer
Add beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Bring to a simmer. -
Let it cook
Lower heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor. -
Taste and tweak
Adjust seasoning. Add more spice, salt, or a touch of sugar or cocoa for balance if needed.
🍽️ To Serve
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Top with: shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or avocado
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Serve with: cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips
Want a vegetarian, white chicken chili, or slow cooker version of this next?
