Best Ever Chili Recipe

Homemade Chili with DIY Seasoning Mix

If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy chili recipe, look no further. This homemade chili combines ground beef, diced tomatoes, and dark red kidney beans with a DIY chili seasoning mix that’s every bit as good as the store-bought version—if not better! Not only does it taste incredible, but it also allows you to control the spice levels and avoid any unnecessary preservatives or additives. Plus, it’s a money-saver, too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This simple chili recipe is packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients that your family will love. It’s perfect for game nights, chilly evenings, or meal prepping for the week. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a comforting bowl of chili that tastes like it simmered all day long.

Tips for the Perfect Chili:

• Homemade Chili Seasoning: I used to rely on store-bought seasoning packets, but they can add up over time. Plus, I found myself craving a more customized flavor that those packets couldn’t always deliver. This DIY mix has all the bold spices you want without the extra additives, and it’s a great way to tweak the spice level based on your preferences.
• Simmering Time: The longer you simmer the chili, the better the flavors will meld together. I recommend simmering for at least 20 minutes, but if you have the time, let it go for up to an hour.
• Thick or Soupy?: If you prefer a thicker chili, add the teaspoon of cornstarch to your seasoning mix. This will give your chili a slightly heartier texture. You can also cook uncovered in the final 10 minutes to let some of the liquid evaporate.
• Cooking in Advance: Chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight.

A Little History: Why I Make My Own Chili Seasoning

I used to rely heavily on those pre-packaged chili seasoning mixes you find at the grocery store, but after a while, I realized I was spending more than I needed to and wasn’t always thrilled with the ingredients list. That’s when I started experimenting with my own spice blends, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer! Now, I can whip up a pot of chili without worrying about running out of seasoning packets or compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s so much cheaper and tastes even better.

Topping Suggestions:

Chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. I love to load mine with shredded cheddar cheese and a handful of diced onions. For an extra kick, jalapeños are a great addition. And here’s a family favorite trick—ditch the spoon and use Frito’s Scoops! They add a salty crunch that perfectly complements the rich, hearty chili. It’s fun and interactive for kids, too!

This recipe is not only a family favorite but also a cost-effective, flavorful alternative to pre-made chili seasoning mixes. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your chili while saving money and impressing your loved ones!

Best Ever Chili Recipe

Course: RecipesDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

This easy homemade chili combines ground beef, diced tomatoes, and dark red kidney beans with a flavorful DIY seasoning mix. Perfect for weeknight dinners or game day, it’s a hearty dish that your family will love. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, or scoop it up with Frito’s for a fun twist! Enjoy a delicious, budget-friendly meal packed with flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 pound groud beef

• 1 can (28 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 can (40.5 oz.) dark red kidney beans, drained

• Homemade Chili Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Directions

• Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the Seasoning: Sprinkle your homemade chili seasoning mix over the browned ground beef and stir to combine. Let the spices cook for about 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
• Add Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and drained kidney beans. Stir everything together to mix the ingredients well.
• Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes (or up to an hour for deeper flavor). Stir occasionally.
• Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, or your favorite chili toppings. For a fun twist, serve with Frito’s Scoops as a dipper instead of a spoon!

Notes

• For a thicker chili, cook uncovered for the last 10 minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the seasoning mix.
• This chili tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers!
• Enjoy with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions!