The Easy Homemade Chili is a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Perfect for cozy family dinners, game day gatherings, or casual weeknight meals, this chili recipe brings together ground beef and sausage, a variety of beans, and a blend of spices that simmer to create rich flavors. Its versatility shines through as it can be served with toppings like cheese and sour cream or enjoyed on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious chili cooking in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: A perfect blend of spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that will impress everyone at your table.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish, side dish, or even use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This chili recipe makes enough to feed a crowd; it’s ideal for parties or family gatherings.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later—perfect for busy days!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Easy Homemade Chili, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon or meat chopper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Essential for simmering your chili evenly without splattering.
- Wooden spoon or meat chopper: Great for breaking up the meat while cooking, ensuring even browning.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground beef sausage (I use Jimmy Dean)
- 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
- 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, petite, undrained
- 4 cups tomato juice
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 15 ounce cans pinto beans, undrained
- 1 16 ounce can kidney beans, undrained
- 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar
- 3 Tablespoons chili powder
- ¾ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you want it spicier)
- Cornmeal (to thicken, if desired)
For Garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
How to Make Easy Homemade Chili
Step 1: Sauté Onion
Add the olive oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until translucent.
Step 2: Brown Meat
Add ground beef and sausage to the pot. Cook while breaking apart into small pieces with a meat chopper or wooden spoon until browned. Be sure to remove any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the red apple vinegar and cook for an additional minute. Then add the diced tomatoes, tomato juice, ketchup, pinto beans, kidney beans, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat while stirring. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for at least one hour—up to three hours is best! Stir occasionally until thickened. For extra thickness, stir in some cornmeal during simmering.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the chili into bowls. Top each serving with optional sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese for added richness. Enjoy your Easy Homemade Chili!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Chili
Serving Easy Homemade Chili is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty dish.
With Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for a gooey, melty finish.
- Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions give a crisp texture and a pop of color.
In a Bowl
- Classic Presentation: Serve in deep bowls with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
- Chili Dogs: Spoon chili over hot dogs for a fun twist on traditional toppings.
As a Side Dish
- Taco Night: Use chili as a filling for tacos, adding your choice of toppings.
- Chili Fries: Pour warm chili over fries for an indulgent side dish.
How to Perfect Easy Homemade Chili
To create the best version of your Easy Homemade Chili, consider these helpful tips:
- Bold Flavors: Use fresh spices and herbs for enhanced flavor. Fresh garlic and herbs make a big difference.
- Simmer Longer: Letting your chili simmer longer improves its taste and consistency. Aim for at least one hour!
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving. Adjust seasonings or add more chili powder for heat as needed.
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for lean meats like ground beef or sausage to keep it hearty yet healthy. Quality matters!
- Thicken Wisely: If your chili is too thin, add cornmeal gradually to thicken it without altering the flavor.
- Make Ahead: Consider preparing your chili a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Chili
Pairing your Easy Homemade Chili with delicious side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Here are some great options:
- Cornbread: A classic pairing that complements the chili’s warmth and sweetness.
- Rice: Serve over white or brown rice to absorb the rich sauce.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a nice contrast to the soft texture of chili.
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad adds brightness and crunch to balance the hearty flavors.
- Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling twist on comfort food.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooey cheese pairs well with spicy chili for a cozy combination.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can cut through the richness, refreshing your palate between bites.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love spice, pickled jalapeños add an extra kick!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Homemade Chili, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the ground beef and sausage can lead to a less flavorful chili. Make sure to brown the meat thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Some people forget to add enough spices. Always taste your chili during cooking and adjust the seasonings as needed for maximum flavor.
- Adding Ingredients Too Early: Adding ingredients like beans too early in the cooking process can result in mushy textures. Follow the recipe closely and add them at the right time.
- Rushing the Simmering Process: Chili benefits from slow cooking. Avoid rushing this step, as letting it simmer for a longer time enhances flavors and thickens the chili.
- Ignoring Customization: Sticking rigidly to the recipe without considering personal taste can be a mistake. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies or spices for a customized version of Easy Homemade Chili.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Easy Homemade Chili in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Easy Homemade Chili
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Easy Homemade Chili
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer chili into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy Homemade Chili special?
This Easy Homemade Chili is packed with flavor from ground beef, sausage, and a blend of bold spices that make it truly delicious and satisfying.
Can I substitute ingredients in this Easy Homemade Chili?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by using turkey instead of beef or adding different beans and vegetables according to your preference.
How do I thicken my Easy Homemade Chili?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, stir in some cornmeal or let it simmer longer. This will help absorb excess liquid.
How long does it take to make Easy Homemade Chili?
The total time is about 140 minutes, which includes both prep and cook time. However, simmering longer enhances flavor!
Can I make Easy Homemade Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply brown the meats first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Final Thoughts
Easy Homemade Chili is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can tailor it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its rich flavors! Perfect for chilly nights or gatherings, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
Easy Homemade Chili
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Easy Homemade Chili is a deliciously hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Packed with the robust flavors of ground beef, sausage, and a medley of spices, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy weeknight meals. The rich combination of beans and tomatoes creates a satisfying base that can be customized with your favorite toppings like cheese and sour cream. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can easily be made in large batches for easy freezing and reheating. Enjoy the delightful experience of each spoonful, whether served alone or as part of a creative meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground beef sausage
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups tomato juice
- 2 cans pinto beans
- 1 can kidney beans
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream
Instructions
- Sauté the diced onion in olive oil over medium-high heat until translucent.
- Add ground beef and sausage; cook until browned.
- Stir in red apple vinegar, then add all remaining ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for at least one hour while stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added depth of flavor, let the chili simmer longer than an hour. You can also customize it by adding extra veggies or adjusting the spice level to your taste.