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There’s nothing like a steaming pot of homemade chili to bring comfort and flavor to the table. This version packs just the right amount of chipotle heat, hearty beans, and rich spices, making it perfect for cozy evenings or feeding a crowd on game day. It’s simple enough for weeknights but tastes like you’ve been simmering it all day.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, if you prefer)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1–2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped, to taste)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes, allowing it to soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute so the flavors bloom but do not burn.
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally until the meat is fully browned. Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The spices will begin to coat the meat and onions, creating a wonderfully aromatic base.
Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Slowly pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot to infuse extra flavor. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let your chili cook for at least 20–25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt, pepper, or more chipotle as desired. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer a bit longer without the lid. For a thinner chili, add more broth.
To serve, ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—perhaps shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, freshly chopped cilantro, or sliced avocado.
This homemade chili is as versatile as it is satisfying. It can easily be made spicier by adding extra chipotle peppers, or toned down by swapping in a mild chili powder. Use lean ground turkey for a lighter option, or play with variations like sweet potatoes or kidney beans.
Whether you’re watching your sodium intake or trying to eat more plant-based meals, the recipe adapts nicely. Enjoy this smoky, hearty bowl of comfort any time you crave a warm meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor.
