Beef Chili with Beans and Cheddar Cheese

Introduction

Beef Chili with Beans and Cheddar Cheese is a hearty, flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out. Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this chili is rich, comforting, and perfect for cold evenings or casual gatherings. Topped with melty cheddar cheese, it’s a one-bowl meal that satisfies every craving.

This recipe is a classic in American comfort food cuisine and a favorite for family dinners, game-day parties, or meal prep. It’s easy to make in one pot, fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, and tastes even better the next day.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures—savory beef, creamy beans, tangy tomatoes, and smoky spices, all topped with gooey cheddar cheese. It’s hearty, wholesome, and versatile enough to enjoy on its own or with sides like cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

It’s also budget-friendly and meal-prep friendly, making it great for families or anyone who loves leftovers. Few dishes are as comforting and reliable as a big pot of chili!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Hearty & Satisfying: A filling one-pot meal with protein and fiber.
• Full of Flavor: The spices and slow simmer bring incredible depth.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or casual weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Easily adapted to your taste—spicy, mild, with or without beans.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~350–400 calories per serving (without toppings)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex
• Course: Main Dish, Dinner, Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers.
2. Brown ground beef until cooked through.
3. Stir in tomato paste, spices, and seasonings.
4. Add tomatoes, beans, and broth. Simmer for 45 minutes.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Base

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

• Add ground beef to the pot.
• Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
• Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Season and Build Flavor

• Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
• Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.

Step 4: Add Liquids & Beans

• Pour in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans.
• Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

• Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
• Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve

• Ladle chili into bowls.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese and garnish with cilantro or green onions.

How to Serve

• With warm cornbread or crusty bread.
• Over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• With tortilla chips for dipping.
• As a topping for baked potatoes or hot dogs.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
• Adjust heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
• For a smokier flavor, add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
• If chili is too thick, add extra broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered longer.

Variations

• Turkey Chili: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Chili: Skip beef and add more beans, lentils, or quinoa.
• White Chili: Use chicken, white beans, and green chilies.
• No-Bean Chili: Stick with extra beef and vegetables if you prefer bean-free.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle for serving

Conclusion

Beef Chili with Beans and Cheddar Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or served at a party, this chili is always a hit.

With its warm spices, hearty beans, tender beef, and cheesy topping, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. A true must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food at its best.