Homemade Mexican Beef Chili

Here’s a hearty, flavorful, and easy Homemade Mexican Beef Chili recipe — perfect for a comforting meal.

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Homemade Mexican Beef Chili

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped

• 1–2 jalapeños, minced (optional, for heat)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup beef broth or water

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Sour cream, shredded cheese, and lime wedges (optional toppings)

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Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

   • Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

2. Brown the beef:

   • Add ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add spices:

   • Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add liquids and beans:

   • Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and beans. Mix well.

5. Simmer:

   • Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld.

6. Serve:

   • Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime.

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Tips & Variations

• Spiciness: Adjust jalapeños or cayenne to taste.

• Smoky flavor: Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika.

• Vegetable boost: Add corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition.

• Slow cooker option: Brown beef and sauté veggies, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

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This chili is rich, savory, and perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or even game-day snacks.

If you want, I can also give you a “quick 30-minute Mexican beef chili” version that’s extra fast but still full of flavor. Do you want that version too?