Classic No-Fuss Chili Recipe: Hearty, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of chili on a cool day, and this Classic No-Fuss Chili recipe delivers all the flavors you love with minimal effort. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this hearty dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or potlucks. Best of all, it’s easy to customize to your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples make this recipe easy and affordable.
One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup with maximum flavor.
Versatile: Adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your preferences.

Ingredients for Classic No-Fuss Chili

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth (or water)
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños

How to Make Classic No-Fuss Chili

1️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3️⃣ Build the Base

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and beef broth.
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

4️⃣ Simmer to Perfection

Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together.

5️⃣ Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Serve with cornbread, crackers, or a side salad.

Tips for the Best Chili

Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Chili tastes even better the next day, so make a big batch and enjoy leftovers.

Why This Chili Recipe is a Favorite

This classic chili is the perfect combination of hearty, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is endlessly customizable, making it a go-to recipe for busy days and special occasions alike.