Best Classic Beef Chili
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The Best Classic Beef Chili is my forever favorite go to chili recipe when I’m wanting the classic beef, bean, and tomato based dish! It really is the best beef chili! So easy to prep, best flavor, and it’s a total family favorite. We love to make a big ol’ batch and make a “chili bar” so we can add a collection of toppings to make it extra delicious.
The Best Classic Beef Chili recipe is the best chili recipe. When I think of “classic” chili I think of what most restaurants serve on their menus, what my dad loved when I was growing up, and the only thing Eric actually considers real chili (he’s stubborn, haha). Simple ground beef, tomato-y base, beans, and lots of scrumptious seasonings are all what a classic chili recipe requires!
Now a days I feel like there are soooo many different types of chili. Hello White Chicken Chili and Bacon Cheeseburger Chili! While those are both super delicious and each of them are family and fan favorites here on The Skinnyish Dish! We also really, really love classic beef chili on a chilly day and we truly think this recipe is one of the best ones around.
I’ve been playing with this “classic” chili recipe for almost 5 years y’all and I really think I’ve finally figured out the best chili recipe. I’ve always loved it, but I kept thinking it was missing something. Last year I was finally told by a restaurant owner, who’s chili Eric and I adore, that one (he wouldn’t give me all of them) of their “secrets” to good ol’ classic beef chili was a spoonful of sugar and I immediately put my palm to my forehead. Duh!!!! I personally use just bit of whole earth sweetener or swerve, but same difference. I even once put cinnamon in my chili because I thought that was the “secret ingredient”. GROSS. Eric still won’t let me live that one down.
How to make the best beef chili:
In a large hot skillet, dutch oven, or pot over medium heat add 1 lb lean ground beef and break apart with a spatula while it’s cooking. Once the ground beef is broken up add 1 cup of beans, diced green pepper and red bell pepper, diced onion, 4-5 garlic cloves, and season with salt and pepper. While it’s all cooking together smash up the beans a bit with the ground beef with a spatula.
I typically use lean ground beef, but if I’m using something with higher fat content I drain the ground beef before adding the beans and vegetables.
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, it won’t taste exactly the same, but I’ve switched out the beef for turkey before and we all still really enjoyed it!
When the onions and peppers are soft and ground beef is browned add in the spices, let the spice mixture cook with the meat for about a minute while stirring. I like to make up my own chili seasoning mix because that means I can make it just the way that I like it.
My chili seasoning mixture:
- 2 tablespoons McCormick Chili powder
- one tablespoon Cumin
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder (extra credit if it’s roasted garlic powder)
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Oregano
- 1-1/2 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
- 1-2 tsp whole earth sweetener or swerve sugar replacement
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Note: I would start with 1 tsp sugar replacement and then adjust after you add everything else and it cooks for a bit. I usually stick with just 1 tsp, but sometimes I add a couple extra pinches depending on my mood. Chili can be a very mood forward recipe.
And y’all I know some people have got some “beef” with Lawry’s, but I do not and never will. It’s a classic seasoning that you’ll always find in my spice cabinet because I grew up on it. If you’re not a big fan of it or don’t have it on hand you can replace it with kosher salt and pepper to taste or another all purpose spice blend that you think would be good in its place, BUT I’d tread lightly with a different spice blend.
Alright so now we get to addin’ everything else and we’re pretty much done here. You’re going to add the rest of the beans, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, a 8 oz can tomato sauce, 1 can Ro*tel (diced tomatoes and green chiles.. I would stick to MILD or ORIGINAL RO*TEL and not the “hot” version unless you like spicy chili!), and 1-1/2 cups beef broth. Bring to a boil then return it to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes stirring occasionally and letting the liquid reduce a bit.
What kind of beans to use?
- Pinto Beans
- Black Beans (not the first choice of beans in chili for most, but I think they make chili even better)
- Red Kidney Beans
- mix of all three
- a mix of Pinto and Black beans (my preference because I despise Kidney Beans)
- mix of Pinto and Red Kidney (a more “classic” combination)
So… Do you like your chili plain jane? No frills? No fuss?
When it comes to chili- I want the fuss! I love making a “chili bar” just set out toppings, bowls, spoons, and maybe a pan of cornbread and let your friends and family go to town. So easy!
The Best Chili Toppings:
What is the secret to great chili? Well, for me. it’s the toppings! Adding all sorts of textures and extra flavors MAKES it for me.
- Oyster crackers
- Diced Red/White Onion
- Cheez its (this is my new chili topping addiction that was suggested by a reader.oh myLord! it’s good!)
- Cilantro
- Fresh or pickled jalapeño slices (I actually prefer pickled)
- Fritos or tortilla chips (not pictured because somebody :cough Eric: ate the entire bag)
- Shredded Cheddar cheese, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Monterey Jack (or a combo of all of the above if you really wanna party)
- Low Fat Greek Yogurt or Sour cream
- diced Avocado
How do I make chili taste better?
If you want to make chili taste better. The best way to go about it is to make it a day ahead and let it set in the fridge then heat it back up on the stove. Letting all those flavors meld together is such a good way to make the best chili recipe ever! I often meal prep chili for this reason. It’s only gets better!
Hello gorgeous. Come to mama. All we need is some cornbread, y’all. This really is the best beef chili!
Can I make this in the crockpot?
Yes you can totally turn this into crockpot chili recipe! Brown the ground beef and cook the onions and peppers in a separate pan then add everything into the crockpot. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Can I meal prep this chili recipe?
Absolutely! I actually recommend it. Chili tastes better and better each day that passes. It makes the BEST leftovers. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container for up 5 days.
Is chili freezer friendly?
Definitely! I always make a double batch and freeze half for a rainy day when I need a break from cooking.
If you make this recipe for the Best Classic Beef Chili be sure to let me know how it went in the comments below!
Best Classic Beef Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (i use 93% lean 7% fat)
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 2 medium peppers (red or green) diced
- 3 cups canned beans (drained, but not rinsed) (i use a mix of pinto and black but you can use whatever type of canned beans you love in chili)
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder (i use McCormick. Be sure to use a chili powder that you know and love because some chili powders can be extra spicy and throw everything off!)
- 1 tbsp Cumin
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Oregano
- 1½ tsp Lawry's Seasoned Salt
- 1-2 tsp sugar replacement (start off with just one tsp. add some if you think it needs it! I use whole earth sweetener or swerve)
- 1 can Ro*tel Mild or Original (diced tomatoes and green chiles)
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- salt and pepper, to taste
Optional (delicious) toppings:
- sliced fresh or pickled jalapenos
- fritos/oyster crackers/cheez its
- diced red onion or green onion
- low fat sour cream or greek yogurt
- shredded cheese
- Frank's Hot Sauce
Instructions
- In a large hot skillet or pot over medium high heat add ground beef and break apart with spatula. When the ground beef is mostly broken apart add onion, peppers, and one cup beans and season a bit with salt and pepper. Continue to cook and use spatula to smash the beans a bit.
- When the ground beef is browned and the onions and peppers are softened. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, lawry's seasoned salt, and sugar. Stir to coat well and cook for about a minute.
- Add the rest of the beans, beef broth, ro*tel (with any juices from the can), tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer and continue to cook for 25-30 minutes uncovered. Top with any desired toppings and enjoy!
- **While this recipe is made to be eaten the day of it tastes even better when you let it sit in the fridge overnight and then heat it up again the next day.
I made this last night and it was delicious! We love all kinds of chili in our house. I saw another poster say that they added in some canned refried beans. I happen to have some in the refrigerator that needed to used. I added 1 cup with the two cans of kidney beans. We will definitely be making this again!
Adding the refried beans is such a good idea! I’m glad you enjoyed =)
I made this for the first time over the weekend for a party. I’ve never made chili before and this recipe received rave reviews!! I used turkey instead of beef and cooked it in the crockpot. Someone said it tasted like it had been cooked over a fire all day. I will definitely be making this again. Your receipes always rock- thank you!!
Made this for the first time tonight
…my hubby said it was the best chili he has ever had! I have to say it was very delicious! I will definitely be making this a lot through the fall and winter!
I’ve made this a few times and absolutely love it! Decided to try it in the crockpot for dinner tonight because we have soccer practice tonight. Can’t wait to eat it.
This Chili is absolutely amazing! I love that you don’t have too cook it for a million hours and it tastes like you did. My family loves it and it freezes and reheats perfectly. You won’t regret making this!!
This chili is amazing! I always just eyeball my own chili and make whatever I have on hand. I followed your recipe to a “T” and it was a huge hit with the hubs!! It is my new go to recipe from now on. Your recipes are our kind of cooking! Downhome food made healthy! Loved it!!!
Hi Karen! This makes me so happy that you all enjoyed it so much!
Question- To avoid another grocery shop, and use what we have, do you think I can sub the Bush’s baked beans? I imagine it makes it less healthy but will it completely alter the flavors?
I really think it would be just fine, the nutritional info will change a bit and I think baked beans have sugar in them, right? If that’s not a concern for you I don’t think it would matter. If anything it’ll have more of a a sweet and savory taste that actually sounds VERY good
So good! Made a double batch to put individual portions in the freezer for lunches.
I have made a lot of chili recipes over the years, but this is truly the best. Love all the vegggies and beans. I added a jalapeño (minus seeds), but it wasn’t spicy enough for me so will include seeds next time to see if that makes a difference. A keeper.
I made this today! We all loved it, my husband and the kiddos( both picky eaters). I love all your recipes.
Although your crockpot creamy white chicken chili is one of my favorites, I was craving beef chili this weekend so gave this one a try. It did not disappoint. This will be my new “go to” recipe for beef chili. Even my husband said this is better than his. Thank you so much for another great recipe!
I’m so so happy y’all enjoyed!!! Thank you for letting me know
Made this in the crockpot and it turned out perfect! I love all of the Skinnyish Dish recipes I have tried.
I have made this chili 5 times in the past 2 months! It’s THAT good! I do throw the ground beef and chopped veggies on the smoker prior to cooking everything per Star’s instructions and I use half chipotle chili powder and half McCormick. Thank you Star for this incredibly quick, easy and delicious recipe!
Soooo good! Our family loves this!
Loved it! Followed the recipe even though I don’t care for bell peppers and it was delicious. My one year old couldn’t get enough! And the Cheez its were a great touch!
Star absolutely hit this recipe out of the park. You have got to try this recipe. You will not be disappointed!!
Made this last week and my family loved it. I didn’t have any ground beef so I used ground turkey and it was still so good! Will be in the rotation a lot this fall/winter for sure.
Great recipe! I swapped it beef for sweet Italian pork! Yum-o!
Yummy!
I can’t wait to try this!
Yummy! The Cheez-it crackers on top were a hit and added great color! Added Trader Joe’s hot and sweet jalapeños. Next level!!! Will
Make again!
I don’t normally follow a recipe when I make chili, but since I like all of your other recipes I decided to give this one a try. I followed the recipe exactly, and thought it was delicious! Picky husband and son approved too!
I’m so happy yall enjoyed it, Liz!! Thanks for stopping back by to let me know too!
This is the best chili ever! It’s the only one I make now , have all the stuff to make it again tonight! Can’t wait! Thank you Star!
I decided on a whim to make this tonight. The stars aligned because I had almost all the ingredients! I did sub the ro*el with fire roasted crushed tomatoes. Wow! Just wow! Both my picky-ish toddlers ate it up. My husband had seconds. Thank you for a great first recipe from your collection! Can’t wait to try more
I decided on a whim to make this tonight. The stars aligned because I had almost all the ingredients! I did sub the ro*el with fire roasted crushed tomatoes. Wow! Just wow! Both my picky-ish toddlers ate it up. My husband had seconds. Thank you for a great first recipe from your collection!
Best Chili Recipe EVER!!! I have been meaning to try your chili forever because every time I try one of your recipes, it’s amazing! The chili was no exception. It was perfectly seasoned and so satisfying. A hit at our house! Thank you!!
It was good served with cornbread. I used low sodium beef broth, and a combination of red and green bell peppers.
This chili is so good! Usually my husband is not a fan of healthier recipes but he loved this chili and asks me to make it all the time. You can’t even tell that this chili is a healthier version. So good and easy to make, also tastes amazing the next day!
Sorry if this is a dumb question, but do I use ground oregano or dried oregano? I can’t wait to try this!!
I use dried oregano flakes, not ground up oregano. I hope you enjoy!
Amazing flavour. Definitely a go too!
Instagram:@woahitskitty
Hands down the best chili recipe I have ever tried!! I am not normally a person that follows recipes, my mama raised me different and we make up our own as we go. I am so glad that I stumbled upon this recipe for a weight watcher friendly chili. I’m the type that can literally eat chili year round, this one is a good one!!
my mama never measured either and I was taught the same. I rarely measure spices when I’m actually cooking just for my personal enjoyment, but I have to measure for this website so other’s can make it! It’s one reason it takes me forever to get recipes up because I forget to measure. Haha! I’m so happy you enjoyed this!
Absolutely delicious! Best chili I’ve ever made!! So thankful for Star and her boldness to make ‘skinny-ish’ everyday meals with better ingredients. Makes eating healthier not so boring! Yummy!
LOVE this chili! So easy and full of flavor. Have made it twice. It is a great dupe for Wendy’s chili. Don’t skip the cheez-it’s!
This chili is so amazing! My husband does a dance of joy when this is on the stove. We love a mix of beans and all the toppings! Being a Texas girl who loves her spicy beef chili, I never thought I’d find a recipe to satisfy me. I served this to some neighbors who came over to help my husband shovel snow with little squares of cheesy bacon jalapeño cornbread on top! They were wild for it. A keeper, you are a goddess.
This was so delicious! I made this the other day for my family and they LOVED IT! Literally scarfed it down and got sad when there was no more! They want me to make this again next week! It was a hit!
@vlo55
Best chili I have ever had…. hands down! My fussy husband loves this!
This chili was so good! My family said it was the best I’ve made. LOL
I was struggling so hard to find a chili recipe my fiance and I LOVED and then this one hit the spot! 10/10 – will forever be a staple in our cozy season meal rotation.
This is really good. And so quick and easy to make. I usually only make my moms chili. But this is really good and will add to my recipes
This was so delicious and perfect for meal prep. Only thing I changed was beer for the beef broth. Thank you!
So so good! I usually struggle to find a chili well seasoned enough for my husband, yet not too spicy for me- but this is it! We’ve enjoyed making this chili in the crockpot using black beans and it’s just perfect for us.
Love, love a classic chili recipe! So good! Make it Now!
Made this tonight, and it was delicious!!! As always, thank you for sharing your recipes with us!
Thank you thank you for sharing a classic chili recipe and this did not disappoint. It was amazing!! I’m so glad to have a go-to chili recipe now. Thank you!
Amazing comforting recipe. Thank you for sharing your art.
I have never been able to make chili, no matter what recipe I use it never comes out quite right. It’s something that’s been my nemesis for so long and I almost gave up on trying to make it, until I came across this one. This is fantastic! I’m so happy to finally have a chili recipe that I love. I’ve tried almost all recipes from Star and have never been disappointed. Thank you for all of your hard work, you’ve brought so much joy and yummy food to me and my family!
This chili was AMAZING. I was so happy with it! The flavor is perfect. I made it in the slow cooker just like you recommended. I loved that it wasn’t too hot at its base level and you could add to it! You are the best!!
My husband is usually the chili maker here. He scoffed at me when I said I was making chili for supper. He LOVED it! I added a can of fat-free refried beans that just melted into the chili. DELICIOUS recipe!
This has been my go-to chili recipe for years. Glad to know I’ve been legal all these years. I drop a few Goldfish in my bowl. I also use 96% 4% beef I get at Aldi’s. 2 points per 4 ounces. A note for parents with fussy children: a friend of mine, when a young kid, never liked her Mom’s chili because of the beans. So her Mom started putting the beans in the blender before adding to the chili. She and her likewise fussy brothers never knew the difference. Used that tip myself a few times. Thanks for all you do!
Thank you for this tidbit of advice regarding beans! I ran two cans of pintos through my food processor and tossed them in with the meat and veggies and I seasoned it up before putting in the tomatoes and broth. You can’t tell I put beans in at all and it makes my chili pretty thick, which is how I like it. So, if my two picky daughters claim they don’t like this, it’s not because of the beans