Hearty Southern Homemade Chili Recipe with Ground Beef

Introduction

This hearty Southern homemade chili recipe with ground beef is a staple of comfort food that combines ease, flavor, and creativity using everyday ingredients. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends and family. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and allows for a plethora of creative toppings and variations, making it a dish that everyone can enjoy and personalize to their taste. With its rich, slightly smoky flavor and tender texture, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between the richness of ground beef, the slight sweetness of onions and bell peppers, and the depth of tomatoes and spices, all of which are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The steps are straightforward, from browning the ground beef to simmering all the ingredients together, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium bell peppers, diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (16 oz) beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Step 2: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-30 minutes, until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, with your choice of toppings.

Handy Tips

• For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of beef broth or add a little cornstarch or flour to thicken.
• Consider using leaner ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier option.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the ground beef; cook in batches if necessary, to ensure even browning.

Heat Control

When simmering the chili, it’s essential to maintain a low heat to prevent the bottom from burning or the flavors from becoming too concentrated. Ideal simmering temperature is between 180°F and 190°F. Let it cook for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Crunch Factor

This chili is best when it has a balance of textures, from the tender beef and vegetables to the crunch of optional toppings like diced onions or sliced jalapeños. For an added crunch, consider serving with some crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a mixture of ground beef and ground sausage for an added depth of flavor.
• Roast your own bell peppers in the oven before dicing them for a smokier flavor.
• Make the chili a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together even more.

Storage Tips

• Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat.
• Consider portioning the chili into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners.
• When freezing, it’s helpful to label the containers with the date and contents, and to freeze in portions that are easy to thaw and reheat.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While chili itself might not be the most typical gift, it can be a thoughtful and warming present, especially during the colder months. Consider packaging it in mason jars with a rustic ribbon and a note with serving instructions, or pair it with some crusty bread or cornbread mix for a complete gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of cumin, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to give your chili a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Beyond the usual shredded cheese and sour cream, consider diced avocados, sliced black olives, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.
• Ingredient swaps: Use ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option, or substitute diced tomatoes with fresh or canned crushed tomatoes for a different texture.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the chili becomes too thick, add a bit more beef broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes or add a thickening agent.
• Ingredient replacements: Don’t have ground cumin? Try using ground coriander or a bit of nutmeg as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: The chili is done when the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender. If it’s undercooked, the flavors might taste separate, and if it’s overcooked, the meat could become dry.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, chili freezes very well. Cool it completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure the beef broth and any additional ingredients you add are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed. It might take a bit longer to simmer, depending on the volume.

Conclusion

This hearty Southern homemade chili recipe with ground beef is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal repertoire. With its ease of preparation, rich flavor, and numerous options for customization, it’s a dish that’s sure to please a variety of tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a party, or just a cozy night in, this chili is a perfect choice. Feel free to experiment with different spices, toppings, and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family.