When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like a steaming bowl of old-school chili. This recipe takes you back to basics, focusing on ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a perfect blend of spices. There’s no pasta, no unnecessary fillers—just rich, hearty chili that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking it low and slow in a crock pot or whipping it up on the stovetop, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Let’s dive in!
Ingredients and Their Roles
- 3 TBSP Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to release their natural flavors.
- 1 Medium Onion (Chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the chili.
- 1 Bell Pepper (Chopped): Adds a touch of color and mild, earthy flavor.
- 1 lb. Ground Chuck (Browned & Drained): The star of the dish—ground chuck is tender, flavorful, and perfect for chili.
- 2 Cloves Garlic (Pressed): A punch of aromatic flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes.
- 2 (14.5 oz.) Cans Diced Tomatoes: The base of the chili—these add juiciness and a slightly tangy flavor.
- 1 (16 oz.) Can Black Beans (Drained & Rinsed): Provides texture, protein, and a slightly sweet, earthy note.
- 2 (16 oz.) Cans Kidney Beans (Drained & Rinsed): A chili classic—kidney beans add heartiness and a satisfying bite.
- 1 (8 oz.) Can Tomato Sauce: Thickens the chili and adds a velvety, tomato-rich texture.
- 1 TSP Freeze-Dried Basil: Adds a hint of herbaceous flavor to balance the spices.
- 1/2 TSP Black Pepper & 1 TSP Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 3 TBSP Chili Powder: The key to chili! It brings warmth, depth, and the signature chili flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
Why this matters: Sautéing the veggies allows them to caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness and creating a flavor-packed base for the chili.
2. Brown the Ground Chuck
- Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground chuck.
- Cook the beef for 8-10 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
- Once the beef is fully cooked (no pink remains), drain off any excess grease to prevent the chili from being too oily.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
- Transfer the browned ground beef and sautéed vegetables to your crock pot.
- Add the following ingredients:
- Diced tomatoes
- Black beans
- Kidney beans
- Tomato sauce
- Garlic
- Basil
- Chili powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cook the Chili
- Place the lid on the crock pot.
- Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
The longer the chili cooks, the deeper and more complex the flavors will become. - Before serving, give the chili a final stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Stovetop Method (Optional)
If you’re short on time, you can make this chili on the stovetop:
- Follow steps 1 and 2 using a large pot instead of a skillet.
- Add the remaining ingredients directly to the pot. Stir well.
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chili
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chili sit for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld even further.
- Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the chili cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash some of the beans with a spoon.
- Flavor Boost: Add a dash of cumin, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and reheat for the ultimate flavor-packed meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty chili with:
- Warm cornbread or crusty garlic bread for dipping.
- A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess.
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chili.
Why This Old School Chili Recipe Is Loved
This recipe stands out because it’s:
- Simple and Authentic: No frills, no pasta—just classic chili ingredients that shine.
- Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld into a hearty, satisfying dish.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day feasts.
Conclusion
This old-school chili with ground beef is a timeless recipe that delivers bold, comforting flavors with minimal effort. Whether you let it simmer in a crock pot or whip it up on the stovetop, this hearty chili is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!
Don’t lose this recipe—bookmark it now and keep it handy for those cozy, chili-craving days. Simple. Hearty. Delicious.