The Best Chili Recipe W/Video

This spicy beef chili recipe is thick, hearty, and easy to make for a busy weeknight. Once everything is in the pot, it needs just 15 minutes of simmering before serving. Have a little extra time? Let it simmer uncovered for up to 35 minutes total for a thicker consistency and deeper flavor.

Best Chili Recipe

This is hands down the best chili recipe! My husband won a cook off with this amazing chili recipe and it’s no wonder why. This easy spicy beef chili is thick & robust. No skimpy spices at all. His award wining chili is so rich in FLAVOR with just the right amount of kick! Perfect to have all year long!

This spicy beef chili recipe is hearty, full of flavor, and easy to make for a busy weeknight. Ground beef, beans, jalapeños, and a generous blend of spices come together in a rich tomato base.

Once everything is in the pot, it needs just 15 minutes of simmering before serving. Have extra time? Simmer it uncovered for up to 35 minutes total for a thicker consistency and deeper flavor.

My husband won a cook-off with this chili, but getting him to write down the recipe took some convincing. He kept telling me he knew it by heart. I finally promised him tacos if he would make it again and write down the measurements. That did it!

The first time I tasted it, I went back for three bowls. Small bowls, okay? It’s been a regular dinner in our house ever since.

What Makes This Chili So Good?

There are no skimpy spices here. Chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic, and cayenne season the beef, while jalapeños and diced tomatoes with green chilies give it a noticeable kick.

Tomato paste adds richness and helps create a thick base without beef broth, beer, or tomato sauce. It’s made with straightforward ingredients, and you can adjust the heat to suit your family.

Ingredient Tips

Find the full ingredient amounts in the recipe card below.

• Ground beef: I recommend 80/20 ground beef for its rich flavor. Drain the excess grease after browning.
• Onion and green bell pepper: These add flavor and texture to the chili.
• Jalapeños: The recipe uses three. For less heat, use one or two and remove the seeds and inner membranes. Jalapeño heat varies, so adjust to your preference.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic and garlic powder both contribute to the seasoning.
• Chili powder: Use an American-style chili powder blend, not pure ground chile pepper.
• Cumin, oregano, and cayenne: These add earthy flavor and heat. Reduce the cayenne for a milder chili.
• Tomato paste: Use one 6-ounce can for a concentrated tomato base.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Add the tomatoes with their juices. Choose a mild variety if you want less heat.
• Beans: Use canned chili beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed.

How to Make Beef Chili

1. Soften the vegetables. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeños. Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Brown the beef. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Once it is no longer pink, carefully drain the excess grease.
3. Add the garlic and seasonings. Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the remaining seasonings, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir everything together. Add the tomato paste, water, diced tomatoes with green chilies and their juices, and drained beans. Stir until the tomato paste is fully incorporated.
5. Simmer. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. For thicker chili, continue simmering for up to 35 minutes total. Add a little water if it becomes too thick.
6. Taste and serve. Adjust the salt and black pepper as needed, then serve with your favorite toppings.

How Spicy Is It?

This chili has a noticeable kick from the jalapeños, cayenne, and canned green chilies. The exact heat will depend on your peppers and the canned tomatoes you choose.

For a milder version, use fewer jalapeños, remove their seeds and inner membranes, reduce the cayenne, and choose mild diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Chili Toppings and Sides

My husband likes his chili without toppings. I like sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream to balance the heat, and buttery crackers for crunch.

You can also add diced onion, sliced green onions, or avocado. Serve it with cornbread for a hearty dinner.

Make It a Chili and Cornbread Night

If you’re making this chili, bake a batch of my sweet cornbread to go with it. The sweetness balances the spicy chili, and a warm slice is perfect for soaking up the last spoonful.

Get the cornbread in the oven before the chili starts simmering, so both can cook at the same time. Add your favorite toppings, and dinner is covered.

Get my sweet cornbread recipe.

Enjoyed this chili? Share it on Facebook or save it to your Pinterest board so you can find it for your next chili night. Follow me on Pinterest for more easy, flavorful recipes!

Looking for more comforting dinners? Try these reader favorites:

• Best Meatloaf 
• Instant Pot Grape Jelly Meatballs 
• Salisbury Steak
• Southern Fried Chicken
• Mashed Potatoes
• Smothered Chicken
• Stovetop Mac & Cheese