Hearty Chipotle Beef Chili

Rooted in Tex-Mex tradition, chili brings smoky comfort to the dinner table in one sturdy pot. Chipotle peppers in adobo and browned ground beef lend this hearty bowl its signature heat and depth.

Serves 6 · 15 min prep · 45 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 420 cal
• 32g protein
• 28g carbs
• 20g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 large, diced yellow onion
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 3 peppers, chopped plus 2 tbsp sauce chipotle peppers in adobo
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1.5 cups beef broth
• 15 oz can, drained kidney beans
• 15 oz can, drained black beans
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1.5 tsp kosher salt
• 0.75 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• as desired optional toppings (shredded cheddar, sour cream, green onions)

Instructions

1. 1Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When it shimmers, add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon.
2. 2Cook the beef until well browned and no pink remains, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally so fond develops on the bottom of the pot. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a little for flavor.
3. 3Add the diced onion and cook 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 1 minute more until fragrant.
4. 4Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and tomato paste. Cook 2 minutes, letting the paste darken slightly and coat the meat.
5. 5Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toast the spices 30 seconds while stirring so they bloom.
6. 6Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a lively simmer.
7. 7Add the drained kidney beans and black beans. Stir well, reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes so flavors meld and the chili thickens.
8. 8Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The chili should be smoky, slightly spicy, and rich. If it looks too thick, splash in a little more broth.
9. 9Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete hero dinner.