Go Back
A bowl of easy ground beef chili topped with cheese and fresh cilantro.

Classic Easy Ground Beef Chili

This classic easy ground beef chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting meal. It features lean ground beef, a rich tomato base, and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 chopped large onion
  • 2 minced cloves garlic
  • 1 can (28-ounce) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15-ounce) kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15-ounce) pinto beans drained and rinsed (or black beans for variety)
  • 1 can (14.5-ounce) diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 cup beef broth
Spices
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a kick
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
  2. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast spices.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine.
  5. Bring chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This chili also freezes well, making it great for meal prep. Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or cornbread for a complete meal.