Get ready to savor the "Awesomest Chili Ever," a hearty, flavorful, and soul-warming dish that's perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in. This crowd-pleasing chili starts with tender ground beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all simmered together with an irresistible blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. A combination of canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a medley of kidney and black beans creates a rich, thick base, while a touch of brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness to balance the heat. Slow-simmered to perfection, this chili develops layers of complex flavors, enhanced by a generous simmering time with bay leaves. Finish it with your favorite toppings—sharp cheddar cheese, creamy sour cream, or fresh cilantro—and serve it piping hot for a meal that’s guaranteed to impress. Don’t miss this ultimate one-pot comfort food recipe packed with bold flavors and endless customization options!
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef or chicken broth, kidney beans, black beans, and bay leaves. Stir until everything is well combined.
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken and the flavors should meld together.
Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed.
Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with optional garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Calories |
960 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 51.4 g | 66% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.9 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 60 mg | 20% | |
| Sodium | 3600 mg | 157% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 90.5 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.4 g | 105% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.7 g | ||
| Protein | 32.1 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 416 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 12.0 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 1609 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.