Old Fashioned Chili is a dish that takes me back to cozy family gatherings where warmth and laughter filled the air along with the savory aroma of slow-cooked goodness. This classic recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or game day gathering. With its simple ingredients, rich flavors, and satisfying heartiness, it’s no wonder this chili is a beloved staple in many homes.

Why you’ll love this dish

This Old Fashioned Chili stands out because it truly encapsulates comfort food at its finest. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and consistently delivers a flavor-packed punch that keeps family members of all ages coming back for seconds. Whether you’re in need of a meal on a busy weeknight, looking to impress friends during a Sunday football game, or wanting to warm up on a chilly evening, this chili checks all the boxes.

"I made this chili for a family gathering, and it was a hit! Everyone raved about the flavors and asked for the recipe. This will definitely become a regular in our household!"

The cooking process explained

Making Old Fashioned Chili is straightforward and requires minimal steps, making it perfect for chefs of any skill level. You’ll be browning meat, sautéing aromatic veggies, and simmering everything together into a rich, hearty mix. The whole process is achieved in just about an hour, filling your kitchen with tantalizing scents that will have everyone asking, "What’s cooking?"

Gather these items

To whip up this comforting bowl of chili, you will need:

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Step-by-step instructions

Brown the beef: In a large pot, heat over medium heat and brown the ground beef. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
Sauté the veggies: Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Spice it up: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, giving the pot a good mix.
Combine the beans and tomatoes: Add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot: Ladle the chili into bowls and enjoy immediately.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Old Fashioned Chili, there are plenty of delicious options to elevate your meal. Consider topping your chili with shredded cheese, diced avocados, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. Serving it alongside cornbread or tortilla chips creates a fantastic crunch and a perfect pairing. Don’t forget a refreshing side salad to balance the flavors!

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), storing them properly ensures they remain delicious for future meals. Allow the chili to cool completely at room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can safely store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw if frozen, and warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Pro chef tips

Enhance flavor: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few drops of hot sauce while simmering.
Texture matters: If you prefer a thicker chili, allow it to simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. A little cornstarch mixed with water can also be added for a thicker consistency.
Batch cooking: This recipe scales up beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. Treat your future self by doubling or tripling the batch to enjoy later.

Creative twists

For those who want to mix things up from the traditional, there are endless possibilities! Swap in different bean varieties like pinto or navy beans, or try adding corn for a sweet crunch. Experiment with spices — smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth, while fresh cilantro as a garnish brings a nice freshness. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or adding more chili powder based on your heat preference.

Common questions

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How long does the chili take to cook?

The total cooking time for this Old Fashioned Chili is about 40-50 minutes, including preparation and simmering.

Can I freeze the leftover chili?

Absolutely! Old Fashioned Chili freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and store it for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to enjoy.

With these simple steps and flavorful ingredients, Old Fashioned Chili is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home cooking repertoire. Enjoy the warmth it brings and don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Old Fashioned Chili

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A classic and comforting chili recipe perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: None

Instructions

In a large pot, heat over medium heat and brown the ground beef. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, giving the pot a good mix.
Add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Ladle the chili into bowls and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Consider topping with shredded cheese, diced avocados, or serving alongside cornbread.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 70mg