Name: Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp olive oil

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If you’re searching for that perfect comfort food to warm you up as the leaves turn and the air crisps, this Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners is absolutely your new best friend. It’s a hearty, flavorful bowl packed with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and just the right blend of spices to make every spoonful a celebration of fall warmth. This chili is not only soul-satisfying but also straightforward to whip up, making it an ideal go-to when you want something delicious without fussing in the kitchen.

Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role. From the savory richness of ground beef to the tender kidney beans, each element adds color, texture, and a symphony of flavors that come together perfectly.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that gives your chili its meaty depth and satisfying bite.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when sautéed to perfection.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth that infuses the entire pot as it cooks.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Offers a pop of color and a gentle, sweet flavor to balance the spices.
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Provides creamy texture and heartiness, making the chili extra filling.
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes: Creates a juicy, tangy base that brightens the savory components.
2 tbsp chili powder: The soul of the dish, delivering that familiar chili warmth and complexity.
1 tsp ground cumin: Enhances the smoky undertones and deepens the overall flavor profile.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky nuance that takes this chili to another level.
1/2 tsp salt: Essential for balancing and amplifying all the flavors.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Offers a mild kick to keep things lively without overpowering.
1 cup beef broth: Creates a rich, flavorful liquid that brings everything together in a cozy stew.
2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing your aromatics and getting the flavors started right.

How to Make Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper, and let them soften for about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is key because it releases their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful foundation for the chili.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Add Garlic

Next, add the minced garlic and ground beef right into the pot. As you break up the beef with your spoon, watch it go from pink to beautifully browned. This caramelization adds depth and richness that’s vital to the final taste.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute until the spices become wonderfully fragrant — this makes the whole kitchen smell amazing and awakens the flavors.

Step 4: Build the Chili

Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Give it a good stir ensuring all ingredients are harmoniously combined. This is where your chili really starts coming to life with color and heartiness.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the chili mixture to a boil, then immediately lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes. This slow cooking melds the robust flavors and tenderizes every ingredient to a comforting finish. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Finally, give your chili a taste. If it needs a little extra salt, pepper, or perhaps a pinch more chili powder, now’s the time to tweak it. Then you’re ready to serve your delicious creation hot and fresh!

How to Serve Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners

Garnishes

Top your hearty bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and perhaps some chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Each garnish adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor that complements the warm, spicy chili.

Side Dishes

Pair your chili with classic sides like crusty bread or cornbread to soak up every drop. A crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables work beautifully as well, adding balance and an extra touch of color to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your chili over baked potatoes or inside warm, hollowed-out bread bowls. You can also turn leftovers into chili-topped nachos or even a hearty chili mac and cheese the next day, keeping fall vibes all week long.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chili actually tastes even better the next day, so store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for planned cozy fall meals or quick weekday dinners.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully! Cool your chili completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for an easy, warming meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened too much in the fridge or freezer. Microwave reheating works well too for a speedy fix.

FAQs

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or add extra beans and vegetables to keep the hearty texture without the meat.

What kind of beans work best in this chili recipe for cozy fall dinners?

Kidney beans are classic, but you can also mix in black beans or pinto beans for variety. Just be sure to rinse canned beans well to reduce saltiness.

How spicy is this chili?

This chili has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the chili powder and spices. If you like it spicier, feel free to add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños!

Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for an even deeper flavor infusion.

What’s the best way to thicken the chili if it’s too watery?

Simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid, or stir in a bit of cornmeal or masa harina for a subtle thickening without changing the flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a pot of chili bubbling away on a crisp fall day, and this Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners hits all the right notes. It’s warm, inviting, full of flavor, and so easy to make that you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your seasonal lineup. Get your cozy bowls ready — fall just got a whole lot tastier!

Chili Recipe for Cozy Fall Dinners Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: Hugo
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This hearty chili recipe is perfect for cozy fall dinners, combining ground beef, kidney beans, and a flavorful blend of spices. Simmered to perfection, it offers a comforting, warm meal that’s easy to prepare and full of rich flavors.

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Cook Beef and Garlic: Add minced garlic and ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Simmer Chili: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeño or more chili powder.
You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version.
Make sure to rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze well for up to 3 months.
Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American