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Cozy Budget Beef and Bean Chili

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A hearty, budget-friendly chili made with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for cozy nights and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. Drain and rinse the canned beans under cold water.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and break it apart. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Push the beef to one side and add the chopped onion and garlic to the cleared space. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Stir in the tomato paste, coating the meat and onions. Add diced tomatoes with their juice and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the drained beans, reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if too thick.
  7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add cayenne or hot sauce if desired. Let sit off heat for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Serve topped with optional garnishes like shredded cheddar, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

Brown the beef slowly without rushing to develop deep flavor. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and canned taste. Let chili rest covered for 10 minutes after cooking to thicken. Optional to puree a portion for thicker texture. Can be made ahead and tastes better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef chili, bean chili, easy chili recipe, budget meal, comfort food, ground beef chili, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/cozy-budget-beef-and-bean-chili-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-meal/