Beef and Bean Chili Delight

Name: Beef and Bean Chili Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats

When I first crafted this Beef and Bean Chili Delight, I aimed for a dish that captures warmth and fullness in every bite. The combination of seasoned beef and hearty beans offers a satisfying richness that reminds me of cozy family dinners. I experimented with various spices to achieve the perfect balance of heat and flavor, making it a hit in my household. This dish has since become a favorite for gatherings, as it’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare in large quantities.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:26:28.198Z

Cooking this Beef and Bean Chili Delight has been a journey filled with flavor exploration. I find that to truly enhance the dish, using fresh herbs such as cilantro as a garnish elevates both taste and presentation. The spices are crucial; I recommend adjusting them based on how spicy you want your chili to be.

While testing different bean varieties, I discovered kidney beans work best for their firmness and texture, standing up beautifully against the savory, rich beef. This simple tip has transformed my chili from good to great!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich blend of spices creates a flavorful experience
Hearty beans add texture and nutrition
Perfectly customizable for spice lovers or milder palettes

      

Choosing the Right Beans

The combination of kidney and black beans brings a delightful texture and visual appeal to this Beef and Bean Chili Delight. Kidney beans offer a firm bite, while black beans provide a creamy, rich addition. If you prefer a different bean, pinto or cannellini beans work just as well. Just ensure that they are canned for convenience, as dried beans would require soaking and longer cooking times.

Additionally, don't hesitate to experiment with bean varieties based on your preference. If you want to boost the nutritional profile, consider adding lentils; they require a bit more time to cook but add a lovely earthiness to the dish.

Enhancing Flavor Depth

To deepen the flavor of your chili, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a subtle barbecue flavor. These ingredients can elevate the umami profile of your dish, creating a more complex taste experience that's especially enjoyable on cold nights.

If you have some extra time, let your chili sit for an hour or so after cooking before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even more delicious. Just reheat gently on low heat before serving to avoid overcooking the beef.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Beef and Bean Chili Delight:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for the best cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering chili:

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.

Brown the beef

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, draining excess fat if necessary.

Add the spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and onion mixture.

Combine beans and tomatoes

Add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) into the pot. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.

Simmer the chili

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve with toppings

Once cooked, serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your chili delight!

Don't forget to let the chili cool before storing leftovers!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, let your chili sit overnight in the fridge
the flavors meld together beautifully. Additionally, try serving it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef and Bean Chili Delight is versatile when it comes to serving options. I love dolloping creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt on top to balance the spice and add a cooling effect. Additionally, pairing it with cornbread or rice can transform it into a complete meal and soak up the delightful sauce.

For a touch of crunch, try serving it with tortilla chips or fresh tortillas on the side. They make wonderful dippers and add a textural contrast to the hearty chili.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this chili is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare it a day in advance, which can actually enhance its flavors. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if it thickens too much.

If you have leftovers, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool the chili completely before transferring it to airtight freezer bags. This is perfect for those busy days when you need a quick, hearty meal ready to go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or additional beans and lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili powder and consider adding fresh jalapeños for more heat. You can always serve with hot sauce on the side.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, over rice, or with crusty bread for dipping. You can also top it with cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor.