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Classic American beef chili with beans topped with cheddar and scallions

Classic American Beef Chili

Thick, savory American beef chili with tender beans, tomatoes, and pantry spices, simmered in one pot.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 28 ounces
  • 2 cans kidney beans 15 ounces each, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • shredded cheddar for serving
  • sliced scallions for serving
  • sour cream for serving

Method
 

  1. Warm a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and no pink remains, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, then stir in the garlic and tomato paste for 30 seconds.
  3. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir so the spices coat the beef and vegetables.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth, then add the beans. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, and simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Taste and adjust salt or chili powder. Serve hot with cheddar, scallions, and sour cream.