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Chili is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition that embodies comfort, warmth, and a sense of community. For many, a steaming bowl of chili conjures memories of family gatherings, game days, and cozy evenings spent with loved ones. It's a dish that's versatile and can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes, but one version consistently stands out: Grandma’s Secret Beef Chili. This cherished family recipe has been passed down through generations, each batch infused with love, nostalgia, and a pinch of secret ingredients that make it uniquely special.

Grandma’s Secret Beef Chili Recipe

Discover the warmth and comfort of Grandma's Secret Beef Chili, a cherished family recipe packed with rich flavors and nostalgic memories. This hearty dish combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables with a unique blend of spices that elevates it to extraordinary levels. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe invites you to create lasting memories around the dinner table while enjoying a bowl of love and tradition. Dive into the full recipe and embrace the joy of home-cooked meals!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs ground beef

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 large green bell pepper, diced

1 large red bell pepper, diced

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

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp chili powder

2 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups beef broth

1 tbsp olive oil

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving)

Shredded cheese (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by finely dicing the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set aside.

    Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Sauté Vegetables: Stir in the diced onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

        Add Spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and veggies in spices.

          Combine Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

            Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavors, allow it to simmer for 1-2 hours if time permits, adding more broth as necessary for desired consistency.

              Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or cayenne for heat.

                Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice if desired.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (plus simmering time) | Servings: 6-8

                    Enjoy your deliciously hearty Grandma’s Secret Beef Chili!