Introduction

Few dishes capture the spirit of comfort food like a hearty bowl of chili. Ground Beef and Bean Chili with Tomato and Spices is a classic recipe that warms you from the inside out with its rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures. Made with tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a tomato base simmered with a bold blend of spices, this chili is as filling as it is flavorful.

What makes this dish so beloved is its versatility—it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a game-day gathering, or even as a make-ahead meal for busy days. Every spoonful delivers a balance of spice, depth, and comfort, while the beans add a hearty bite that makes it wholesome and nourishing. Whether you top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs, this chili can be customized to your taste and is always a crowd-pleaser.

It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, filling your home with delicious aromas and leaving everyone satisfied. Simple, hearty, and packed with flavor, this chili is a timeless classic you’ll want to make again and again.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate one-pot comfort food. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest eaters, yet simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. The ground beef adds a savory richness, the beans provide a filling and nutritious element, and the tomato base ties it all together with just the right amount of tang. The spice blend gives it that warm, bold kick without being overwhelming, making every spoonful comforting and flavorful.

Another reason I love it is its versatility—you can enjoy it on its own, pile it over rice, serve it with cornbread, or even use leftovers as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos. Plus, it gets even better the next day as the flavors deepen, making it a great make-ahead dish. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home in a bowl, and that’s why it holds such a special place in my kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This chili is a must-try dish because it’s a perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and practicality. It’s hearty enough to feed a family, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and fiber thanks to the beef and beans. The recipe is straightforward but leaves room for customization—whether you like it mild, smoky, or extra spicy, you can easily adjust the seasonings to your taste.

It’s also a dish that suits almost any occasion: a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, a crowd-pleaser for parties, or a satisfying meal prep option for the week. With just one pot, you get a filling and nourishing dish that tastes like it took hours to make, but comes together with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes—flavorful, hearty, easy, and comforting—this chili is absolutely one you need to try.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~320 per serving

Ingredients

Main:

• 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) ground beef (85% lean)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14 oz / 400 g) cans diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 (6 oz / 170 g) can tomato paste
• 2 (15 oz / 425 g) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

Spices:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Brown the Beef – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté Aromatics – Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add Spices – Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth – Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix well.
5. Add Beans – Stir in kidney beans.
6. Simmer – Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and Adjust – Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne to taste.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep ingredients first – Chop veggies and measure spices for a smooth cooking flow.
2. Brown beef well – This builds the base flavor of the chili.
3. Bloom spices in oil – Heating them briefly releases maximum flavor.
4. Simmer slowly – This melds all the flavors together beautifully.
5. Adjust consistency – If too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls with toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro.
• Pair with cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips for scooping.
• Serve over rice or baked potatoes for a heartier meal.

Additional Recipe Tips and Variations

• Make it smoky – Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a deep, smoky heat.
• Bean swap – Use black beans, pinto beans, or a mix for variety.
• Add vegetables – Corn, zucchini, or carrots add texture and sweetness.
• Make it vegetarian – Swap beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cutting board and chef’s knife

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—brown beef and sauté vegetables first, then transfer to slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Q2: Can I make it spicier?
Yes—add extra cayenne, fresh jalapeños, or hot sauce to taste.

Q3: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes—use about 4–5 cups chopped fresh tomatoes and cook a little longer to reduce excess liquid.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger pot and adjust seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Bean Chili with Tomato and Spices is the definition of hearty comfort food. Rich, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for family dinners, casual entertaining, or stocking the freezer for busy days. Once you’ve made it, you’ll understand why chili is a beloved classic that never goes out of style.