Description
This lean beef chili is a hearty and flavorful dish made with lean ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of warm spices. It’s a comforting, protein-packed meal perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or game day gatherings, all while being light and nutritious.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90–93%)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
Oils and Pastes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté veggies: Add diced onion and bell pepper and cook for 4–5 minutes until they soften, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant to enhance the flavor.
- Brown beef: Add lean ground beef, cooking until browned while breaking it up with a spoon; drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add spices and tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper, making sure the beef and vegetables are evenly coated.
- Add liquids and beans: Pour in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth; mix everything thoroughly.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to meld and mixture to thicken.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve hot, optionally topped with Greek yogurt, avocado, or shredded cheese.
Notes
- Chili thickens as it simmers; add more broth if needed to reach desired consistency.
- For added nutrition and variety, incorporate extra vegetables like zucchini or corn during the sauté step.
- This chili pairs well with toppings such as Greek yogurt, avocado slices, or shredded cheese for added flavor and creaminess.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully for future meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
