If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal, my Beef & Bean Chili recipe is perfect for you. In this simple slow cooker guide, I’ll show you how to blend flavors and spices for a satisfying dish. Whether you want to treat your family or have friends over, this chili will hit the spot every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients List
For this Beef & Bean Chili, you will need the following:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Ingredients for Extra Heat
If you want to spice things up, consider adding:
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
Recommended Garnishes
To finish your chili and add fresh flavors, use:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
To start, gather all your ingredients. You need:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
First, chop the onion and garlic. Dice the bell peppers. If you like heat, chop the jalapeño.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and then the chopped onion and garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they look clear. This step builds flavor.
Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns brown. If there is too much fat, drain it.
Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and jalapeño (if using) into the beef mixture. Cook for 1-2 more minutes. This helps the spices mix well.
After that, transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add in the chopped bell peppers, kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes with their juice.
Cooking Times and Settings
Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker. Stir everything well to combine. Cover the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking makes the flavors come together. Before you serve, taste the chili. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Enhance the Flavor Profile
To boost the flavor of your chili, consider using fresh herbs. Fresh cilantro adds brightness. A squeeze of lime juice lifts the dish. You can also try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. It brings depth and umami. If you want a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika. This spice pairs well with the beef and beans. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. A pinch of cinnamon can add warmth. Always taste your chili before serving. This lets you adjust flavors to your liking.
Best Practices for Browning Beef
Browning beef well is key for rich flavor. Start with a hot skillet and enough oil. Make sure to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown evenly. Avoid crowding the pan; this traps steam. Cook in batches if necessary. Once the beef is brown, drain excess fat. Leaving too much fat can make the chili greasy. After browning, mix in spices right away. This toasts them and brings out their flavors.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Want more heat? Add more jalapeño or chili powder. Start with a little, then taste. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take heat away. For milder chili, skip the jalapeño. You can also use sweet bell peppers for flavor without heat. If your chili turns out too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream. This cools down the dish while adding creaminess. Consider serving with cornbread or tortilla chips. They balance the heat and add crunch.
Variations
Vegetarian Version of Beef & Bean Chili
You can make a great vegetarian chili. Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat. You can also use lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Add more beans like pinto or navy beans for extra protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This version is still rich and filling. You won’t miss the meat at all!
Adding Different Beans and Proteins
Feel free to mix and match with beans. Black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas all work well. They add taste and fiber. If you want more protein, try turkey or chicken. Just brown it like you do with beef. You can also add quinoa for a nutty flavor and extra nutrients.
International Twist Ideas
Give your chili a global flair! Add spices like curry powder for a unique taste. Try using chipotle peppers for a smoky kick. You can even add a can of coconut milk for a creamy texture. For a Mexican twist, top it with avocado and queso fresco. Want a Thai flavor? Mix in some peanut butter and lime juice. Each twist makes your chili special!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After you finish your beef and bean chili, let it cool down first. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Store the chili in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, you may consider freezing it.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your chili, use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. Your chili can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using a microwave, heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. For stovetop, place the chili in a pot over medium heat. Stir regularly until it’s hot. If it’s thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out. Enjoy your chili again!
FAQs
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Both meats work well in chili. For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tempeh or lentils. These choices add protein and flavor while keeping the dish hearty.
Can I Cook This Recipe on the Stovetop?
Yes, you can cook this chili on the stovetop. Brown the beef and sauté the veggies in a pot. Then add all the ingredients, cover, and simmer for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This method gives you a rich flavor in less time.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container. It lasts up to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it in smaller portions. This way, you can enjoy it anytime you want.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Absolutely! Add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to boost the heat. You can also mix in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to reach your desired spice level.
What to Serve with Beef & Bean Chili?
Serve with cornbread for a sweet touch or tortilla chips for crunch. A dollop of sour cream or sliced avocado adds creaminess. Fresh cilantro and lime wedges enhance the flavor even more. Enjoy this chili with your favorite sides!
In this blog post, we explored the essential ingredients and the best methods to make beef and bean chili. You learned how to prepare and cook the beef, combine all flavors in a slow cooker, and adjust spice levels. We discussed tasty variations and how to store leftovers.
Chili is easy to make and can fit any taste. Try these tips, and enjoy your chili masterpiece!
