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Classic Dad’s Championship Chili Recipe

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A cozy, crowd-pleasing chili recipe passed down through generations, featuring a perfect blend of spices, tender beef, and smoky depth. Ideal for family dinners and potlucks, this chili is quick, easy, and full of comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dark cocoa powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat (about 5 minutes). Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned evenly, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize.
  5. Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
  6. Season with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dark cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce heat to low, partially cover with a lid, and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if chili becomes too thick.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Add extra cayenne or hot sauce for more heat if desired.

Notes

For thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for desired heat level. Ground cocoa powder and cinnamon add depth without overpowering the classic flavor. Can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based mince for lighter or vegetarian versions. Beans can be omitted or replaced with extra vegetables for low-carb option. Chili tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili, classic chili, dad's chili, family dinner, easy chili recipe, cozy meal, ground beef chili, smoky chili, hearty chili

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/classic-dads-championship-chili-recipe-easy-cozy-family-dinner-ideas/