Get ready to warm your soul with a bowl of Grandma Huston’s Chili! This hearty, flavorful dish is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace that transports you back to family gatherings and cozy nights in. With its rich blend of spices, tender ground beef, and protein-packed kidney beans, this chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving a delicious bowl for yourself, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Dive in and discover how to create this mouthwatering chili that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the meat if desired, leaving a small amount for flavor.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Add rinsed and drained kidney beans to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, mixing well with the meat and beans.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the chili for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Serve hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese and optional accompaniments like sour cream or chopped green onions.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: For the best flavor, opt for lean ground beef. You can also experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it hot, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow your chili to simmer for the full 60 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
- Toppings Galore: Elevate your chili by offering a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocados, or fresh cilantro to let everyone customize their bowl.
- Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal later on.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
