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Best Ever Beef Chili for Cozy Nights and Meal Prep

This comforting beef chili is perfect for chilly nights and meal prep, packed with rich flavors and customizable options.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 4 oz Bacon Provides a smoky flavor; optional
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Main protein source
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness and depth
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Introduces crunch and sweetness
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall savory flavor
For the Spice Blend
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder Provides warmth and spice
  • 1 tbsp Ground Cumin Imparts earthy warmth
  • 1 tbsp Paprika Adds depth and color
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Contributes herbal notes
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances all flavors
For the Saucy Goodness
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Thickens and intensifies flavors
  • 28 oz Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes Adds a charred flavor
  • 1 can Black Beans Adds fiber and heartiness; optional
  • 1 can Red Kidney Beans Provides texture and additional protein
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Moistens and amplifies flavor
  • 1 Bay Leaf Infuses an aromatic flavor; remove before serving
For Serving
  • Optional Garnishes Avocado, red onion, shredded cheese, or sour cream

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until well-browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste along with chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, red kidney beans, beef broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.
  6. After 30 minutes, remove the bay leaf and serve the chili with your choice of garnishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

This chili can be prepared ahead of time and freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for easy meals.

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