Classic Hearty Beef Chili: A Comforting Dish for Any Season

This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. It also works great with a side of pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Chili also freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding more broth or water if needed.
Variants:

Vegetarian Chili: Replace the beef with a mix of beans like black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas. You can also add chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Spicy Beef Chili: Add more diced green chilies, extra cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Slow Cooker Chili: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a deeper, richer flavor.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Ground beef offers a richer flavor, but lean poultry is a great alternative for a lighter chili.

Q: Can I make this chili in advance?
A: Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later.

Q: How can I adjust the spice level of this chili?
A: You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper, chili powder, and green chilies you add. For a milder chili, reduce the cayenne and skip the green chilies. For more heat, increase the cayenne and add fresh diced jalapeños.