Chunky Beef Chili

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Satisfy your cravings with this hearty Chunky Beef Chili recipe, packed with tender chunks of beef, zesty tomatoes, and a medley of spices that create a warm, comforting dish. Perfect for chilly nights or game day gatherings, this chili is easy to prepare and offers loads of flavor in every spoonful. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-21T04:16:51.669Z

This Chunky Beef Chili has become a family favorite, bringing warmth and flavor, especially on those cold nights.

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns cold, there's nothing quite like a hot bowl of chili to warm you up from the inside out. Chunky Beef Chili is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. The combination of tender beef, flavorful beans, and zesty tomatoes creates a rich and hearty dish that feeds both body and soul. This chili also offers a good balance of protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Want it spicier? Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños. Prefer a milder flavor? Cut back on the spices or add a dollop of sour cream. This recipe serves as a canvas for your culinary creativity, ensuring that each pot of chili is uniquely yours.

Easy to Make, Fun to Share

One of the best aspects of preparing Chunky Beef Chili is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal simmering on the stove without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday family dinner or prepping for game day celebrations, this chili comes together quickly and easily. It's the kind of dish that even novice cooks can master, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the joy of home-cooked chili.

Additionally, serving this beef chili can become a social event. Set up a chili bar with toppings like cheese, sour cream, green onions, and tortilla chips, allowing guests to create their perfect bowl. It encourages interaction and sharing, making your gathering even more memorable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, you're in for a treat! Chunky Beef Chili stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This transportability makes it perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of your chili. Freeze it in individual servings for quick and easy meals that can be reheated whenever you need a cozy meal. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and microwave or simmer on the stove until heated through. You'll always have a little taste of comfort waiting for you, even on the busiest days.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for the best experience!

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
  • 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups beef broth

You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect chili!

Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the beef chunks until they are browned on all sides.

Add Aromatics

Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onions become translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 1 hour.

Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Chunky Beef Chili is not only delectable but also nutritious. With tender beef chuck as the main protein source, this dish provides essential amino acids and iron, contributing to a balanced diet. Beans are another powerhouse ingredient, packed with fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Incorporating these wholesome ingredients means you can indulge without compromising your health.

Moreover, the inclusion of tomatoes adds a boost of vitamins such as vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, known for its heart health benefits. Each spoonful of this chili not only satisfies your taste buds but also delivers a healthy dose of nutrients—a win-win situation!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Chunky Beef Chili, consider serving it with a side of cornbread or crispy tortilla chips. The sweetness of cornbread balances the spiciness of the chili and adds a delightful texture contrast. If you prefer something lighter, a simple green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili flavors.

For beverages, a cold lager or a zesty margarita can enhance the chili experience, making your gatherings lively and enjoyable. Choose your favorite bread—whether it’s a crusty baguette or fluffy sourdough—for dipping into the chili, ensuring none of that delicious broth goes to waste.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice are great options!

Chunky Beef Chili

Satisfy your cravings with this hearty Chunky Beef Chili recipe, packed with tender chunks of beef, zesty tomatoes, and a medley of spices that create a warm, comforting dish. Perfect for chilly nights or game day gatherings, this chili is easy to prepare and offers loads of flavor in every spoonful. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration1 hour 30 minutes
Overall Time1 hour 45 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
  2. 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  3. 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
  4. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
  5. 1 onion, diced
  6. 2 garlic cloves, minced
  7. 2 tbsp chili powder
  8. 1 tsp cumin
  9. 1 tsp salt
  10. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  11. 2 cups beef broth

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the beef chunks until they are browned on all sides.

Step 02

Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onions become translucent.

Step 03

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 1 hour.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 15g