The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Hearty Beef Chili with Cheddar Cheese Topping

Hearty Beef Chili with Cheddar Cheese Topping

Indulge in a bowl of hearty beef chili that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. This easy beef chili recipe is your ticket to a comforting weeknight dinner, loaded with rich flavors and topped with melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this chili is both satisfying and simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hearty beef chili is not just about flavor; it’s about ease and satisfaction. Here’s why you’ll want to whip it up:

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy nights.
  • Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a depth of flavor.
  • Customizable: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
  • Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep, it tastes even better the next day.
  • Comfort Food: A warm bowl of chili is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Hearty Beef Chili

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

  • For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
  • Adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety.
  • Make sure to brown the beef well for enhanced flavor.

Easy Variations

  • Vegetarian Chili: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
  • White Chili: Use ground turkey and white beans for a lighter version.
  • Chili Mac: Stir in cooked macaroni for a delicious chili pasta dish.

What to Serve With It

  • Fresh cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
  • A side salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • Tortilla chips for added crunch.
  • Sour cream and sliced jalapeños as toppings.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze chili in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recipe Card

Hearty Beef Chili with Cheddar Cheese Topping
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Notes: For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Adjust spices for desired heat.

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top