If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and filling dish to feed a crowd, this Ultimate Classic Chili Recipe is the answer! Packed with rich spices, tender beans, and perfectly seasoned ground beef, this chili delivers deep layers of flavor and a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, a weekend gathering with friends, or a game day party, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Plus, it’s easily customizable — you can adjust the heat level to suit your taste.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Classic Chili:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 can (14 oz) lima beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained
1 can (14 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 large onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color works)
2 tablespoons of a chili seasoning blend (adjust for your preferred spice level)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for those who like a kick of heat)
1 tablespoon concentrated tomato paste for extra flavor
1 cup (250ml) beef or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or avocado slices

Instructions:

Cook the Ground Meat: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. If necessary, drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion and chopped bell pepper. Stir and cook the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until they become tender and release their natural aromas. Add the minced garlic at the last minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
Add the Spices: Now it’s time to build the flavor. Stir in the chili seasoning blend, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the spices cook for about 2 minutes to release their full flavors and aromas.
Build the Chili Base: Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the vegetables and spices. Then, pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, lima beans, great northern beans, and the cooked meat. Stir everything together until well combined.
Simmer: Pour in the broth and stir well. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a slow boil, then immediately lower the heat and let the chili gently simmer. Let the chili simmer without a lid for 30-40 minutes, stirring from time to time until the flavors combine and the mixture thickens.
Season to Taste: After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or even extra chili seasoning if you want a bolder flavor.
Serve with Toppings: Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Try shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or avocado slices for added texture and flavor. Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crusty baguette to complete this comforting dish.

Enjoy Your Ultimate Classic Chili!

This Ultimate Classic Chili Recipe is bold, hearty, and full of rich flavors that will warm you up from the inside out. It’s perfect for cold nights, a quick weeknight dinner, or feeding a crowd at your next gathering. The best part? Chili tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to develop even further. With its customizable spice level and endless topping options, each bowl of chili becomes a unique and irresistible experience. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just for yourself, this chili is sure to impress!