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Classic Ground Beef Chili

Make this classic ground beef chili with a bold mix of spices, tomatoes, and beans. Rich, hearty, and ready in one pot — perfect for any night of the week.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef chuck
  • 1 pound ground beef sirloin
  • 2 –3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 ½ cups diced onion about 1 large onion
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • Three 16-oz. cans diced tomatoes
  • One 16-oz. can tomato sauce
  • Three 15-oz. cans light red kidney beans rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños brine
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Method
 

Step 1: Brown the Beef
  1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add both ground beef chuck and sirloin.
  2. Break apart with a spoon and sauté for about 8 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a plate, leaving drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Toast the Spices
  1. Into the beef drippings, add chili powder and cumin. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to toast and bloom the spices.
Step 3: Build the Base
  1. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Stir in diced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes, or until onions are soft and translucent.
  3. Add a tablespoon of oil if needed.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
  1. Return the browned beef to the pot and season with kosher salt.
  2. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and drained kidney beans. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
  1. Stir in jalapeño brine and brown sugar.
  2. Simmer for at least 5 minutes (or longer for richer flavor).
  3. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.