Ultimate Cozy Chili Recipe
A hearty, flavor-packed chili recipe made with tender beef, beans, and warm spices—perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
For the Chili Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium carrot finely diced
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
For the Sauce & Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can 400g crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can 240g drained kidney beans
- 1 can 240g drained black beans
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro
- Grated cheese
- Sour cream or yogurt
- Sliced avocado
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrot, cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and bell pepper, cook for 2 minutes.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne. Stir well.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth, then add kidney beans and black beans.
Simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with desired toppings.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Swap ground beef for turkey or lentils for a lighter option.
For deeper flavor, add a pinch of cocoa powder or let chili simmer longer.