Just the basics, please! This Basic Easy Chili recipe on its own makes a hearty, satisfying pot of beef & bean chili. But then, you have so many options for switching up the base recipe to fit your own family’s tastes.
In a Dutch oven or soup pot, brown the ground beef together with onion and garlic over medium-high heat.
While the beef is browning, rinse and drain the beans.
Once the ground beef is cooked through, drain off the grease and return the beef mixture to the pot. Turn the heat to medium-low, then stir in the spices and cocoa powder until nicely combined with the ground beef.
Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, and water. Simmer chili over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Notes
Serve your chili topped with shredded cheddar and chopped green onions, if desired. (A little tangy cheese takes everything up a notch!)