Homemade Mexican Beef Chili Recipe

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When it comes to comfort food that warms the soul, few dishes can match a hearty bowl of homemade Mexican beef chili. This recipe celebrates the bold flavors of traditional Mexican cooking, blending tender beef with aromatic spices, beans, tomatoes, and a touch of heat. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or chilly evenings, this chili is not only filling but also versatile, allowing you to adjust spice levels and toppings to suit your taste. Let’s dive into how you can make an authentic, flavorful pot of chili right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)

  • 2 pounds ground beef (or beef chuck, diced small for a heartier texture)

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes

  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1–2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (balances acidity)

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, tortilla chips, or pickled jalapeños.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary. This step builds the foundation of flavor, giving your chili a deep, meaty richness.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and jalapeños to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Stir well, letting the spices toast slightly in the oil and meat juices—this step intensifies their flavor.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and black beans. Pour in the beef broth and stir until everything is well combined. The chili should look rich and hearty, with plenty of liquid to simmer the flavors together.

Step 5: Simmer Slowly

Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. For the best results, let it cook for 2 hours—this allows the spices to meld beautifully, the beans to soak up flavor, and the beef to become extra tender. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.

Step 6: Finish with Brightness

Just before serving, stir in the lime juice and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra chili powder if needed. The lime adds a zesty brightness that balances the hearty, spicy flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade Mexican beef chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. For extra crunch, add tortilla chips on the side or serve it with warm cornbread. If you’re hosting, set up a chili bar with toppings like diced avocado, sliced green onions, pickled jalapeños, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their bowl.

This chili also pairs beautifully with steamed rice, soft flour tortillas, or even over baked potatoes for a satisfying meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop overnight.

Tips for the Best Chili

  1. Choose the Right Meat – Ground beef works perfectly, but using diced beef chuck creates a chunkier, stew-like chili.

  2. Balance the Heat – Adjust jalapeños and cayenne depending on how spicy you want it. For mild chili, stick to bell peppers and just a touch of chili powder.

  3. Simmer Longer – The longer it cooks, the richer and deeper the flavor becomes.

  4. Experiment with Beans – While kidney and black beans are traditional, you can try pinto beans or even chickpeas.

  5. Make Ahead Friendly – Chili is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Conclusion

This homemade Mexican beef chili is the perfect blend of spice, comfort, and heartiness. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a warming dish that’s as ideal for family dinners as it is for entertaining friends. Whether you prefer it mild and smoky or fiery with heat, this recipe gives you the flexibility to make it your own. Once you serve it with your favorite toppings and sides, you’ll see why chili has remained a beloved classic for generations.

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