This Smoky Chipotle Bean & Beef Chili is a protein-packed dish that combines tender beef with beans and a smoky chipotle flavor. It’s a hearty comfort food perfect for a spicy dinner.

This easy chili recipe can be made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, making it a versatile option for any weeknight meal.

Hearty Smoky Chipotle Beef Chili

This chili features a rich blend of ground beef, beans, and smoky chipotle peppers, simmered to perfection. The recipe takes about 1 hour on the stovetop or can be cooked in a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach, serving 6 people.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Ingredients: Stir in the chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine: Add the crushed tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Slow Cooker Option: For a slow cooker, transfer the browned beef and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 bowls
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g