When the craving for something hearty and healthy strikes, nothing quite satisfies like a steaming bowl of Classic Beef and Bean Chili. This dish isn’t just a winter staple; it’s a year-round favorite among those looking to indulge without derailing their wellness journey. Packed with protein-rich beef and fiber-filled beans, this chili is a nutritional powerhouse that’s been shown to assist in weight management. Imagine that warm, inviting aroma of slow-cooked spices wafting through your home. It’s irresistible!
My own love affair with chili started on a chilly autumn day, perfectly fitting the start of beef chili season. It was the comforting soup-pot meal that always made family gatherings at my grandma’s house feel special, her secret touch being a pinch of cocoa powder that deepened the rich flavors. The magic lies in its adaptability; whether you prefer it mild or with a fiery kick, you control the spices. The delightful combination of firm beans, tender beef, and aromatic spices joins forces to create a texture and taste symphony that warms you from the inside out. Share your secret ingredients or tweaks below—I’d love to hear your tasty twists!
Recipe Card
Classic Beef and Bean Chili
Description
A year-round favorite, this Classic Beef and Bean Chili is packed with protein-rich beef and fiber-filled beans. Infused with aromatic spices and a secret touch of cocoa powder, it offers a rich and comforting meal experience.Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
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Prepare Ingredients
Gather and prepare all ingredients as listed. Chop onions, mince garlic, and drain beans.
Having all ingredients pre-measured and ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Cooking
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Cook Beef and Vegetables
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until cooked through. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
Ensure beef is fully browned and vegetables are sautéed for optimal flavor. -
Simmer the Chili
Add tomato sauce, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional cocoa powder. Stir well. Simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Finishing
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Final Touches
Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Resting allows the flavors to settle and intensify.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13gg20%
- Saturated Fat 5gg25%
- Trans Fat 0gg
- Cholesterol 70mgmg24%
- Sodium 880mgmg37%
- Potassium 940mgmg27%
- Total Carbohydrate 32gg11%
- Dietary Fiber 10gg40%
- Sugars 6gg
- Protein 28gg57%
- Vitamin A 30% IU
- Vitamin C 15% mg
- Calcium 6% mg
- Iron 25% mg
- Vitamin D 0% IU
- Vitamin E 6% IU
- Vitamin K 15% mcg
- Thiamin 15% mg
- Riboflavin 20% mg
- Niacin 60% mg
- Vitamin B6 30% mg
- Folate 90% mcg
- Vitamin B12 30% mcg
- Biotin 0% mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 10% mg
- Phosphorus 25% mg
- Iodine 0% mcg
- Magnesium 20% mg
- Zinc 40% mg
- Selenium 30% mcg
- Copper 15% mg
- Manganese 30% mg
- Chromium 0% mcg
- Molybdenum 0% mcg
- Chloride 0% mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.