Moms Classic Chili

🍲 Moms Classic Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (or half beef, half pork/turkey)

1 large onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, rinsed & drained

2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 cup beef broth (or water)

2 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to heat preference)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity, optional)

2 tbsp olive oil

Toppings (optional):

Shredded cheddar cheese

Sour cream

Sliced green onions

Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.

4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beans, and broth. Stir well.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes–1 hour, stirring occasionally.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning. If you like it thicker, simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes.

7. Serve hot with toppings of your choice.

✨ Tips:

For richer flavor, let it simmer longer (up to 2 hours).

Add corn, zucchini, or jalapeños for extra texture.

Freezes beautifully—make a big batch and save for later!