Bowl of delicious homemade chili with ground beef, beans, and spices

The Ultimate Best Chili Recipe: Easy, Thick & Flavorful Meat Chili

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade chili to warm you up on a chilly day. This award-winning recipe combines the perfect balance of savory ground meat, tender beans, and aromatic spices to create what many consider the best chili ever. Whether you’re craving a hot chili recipe with some kick or a comforting thick chili recipe that sticks to your ribs, this versatile dish delivers exceptional flavor with minimal effort.

What makes this real chili recipe stand out is its slow-cooked depth of flavor. Using a crock pot allows the ingredients to meld together perfectly, creating a rich, complex taste profile that’s simply irresistible. The ground meat chili recipe base provides hearty satisfaction, while the blend of chili powders and spices creates that authentic chili flavor you crave.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (90% lean)
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
4 cups beef broth

Spice Blend:

3 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 bay leaf

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the beef mixture to your crock pot. Add all remaining ingredients: beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and all spices. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows flavors to develop more deeply.

Step 5: Thicken and Serve

If you prefer a thicker chili, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water and stir into the chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Chili

For spicier chili: Increase cayenne pepper or add 1-2 diced jalapeños
Thickening secret: Mash some beans against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the chili
Flavor boost: Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity
Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld
Freezing: This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months

FAQ Section

Can I use different meats?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter version. You can also use a combination of meats.

How can I make this vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or additional beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What’s the secret to thick chili?

Our recipe achieves thickness through slow cooking and optional cornstarch. Letting it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes also helps thicken it.

Can I cook this faster?

Yes, you can simmer on the stovetop for 1-2 hours instead of using a crock pot, though slow cooking develops better flavor.

This best chili beans recipe is perfect for game days, family dinners, or meal prep. Serve with cornbread, over rice, or with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Enjoy what many call the best chilli ever!