basic chili recipe with Smoked Paprika and Minted Feta Yogurt

Name: basic chili recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion (approx. 250g), finely diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper (approx. 180g), finely diced; 2 pounds lean ground beef; 4 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 28 ounces can crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cans (each 15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 teaspoon orange zest (from 1 small orange); 0.5 cup plain full-fat yogurt, for garnish; 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled, for garnish; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped, for garnish; 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped, for garnish; 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil, for garnish drizzle

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I know how challenging it can be to get a wholesome dinner on the table during a busy week. That’s why this hearty basic chili recipe, with its rich, savory aroma filling your kitchen, is such a lifesaver for busy parents and home cooks looking for reliable, family-friendly meals. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting and healthy without spending hours over the stove. Packed with goodness, this easy dinner idea delivers that comforting, savory flavor everyone craves. We’ll show you how to master this classic, from picking the best ingredients to smart serving ideas.

Ingredient Selection & Purpose

Starting with quality ingredients is essential for a delicious basic chili recipe. Our version includes a unique smoky flavor and a refreshing minted feta yogurt garnish.

Olive oil (30 mL / 2 tablespoons): For sautéing and building the flavor base.
Yellow onion (1 large, approx. 250g), finely diced, and Garlic (4 cloves), minced: These aromatics provide the essential savory foundation.
Red bell pepper (1, approx. 180g), finely diced: Adds mild sweetness and a pop of color (feel free to use green bell pepper for a sharper taste).
Lean ground beef (900 g / 2 pounds): The hearty protein that makes this a satisfying, high-protein meal. (Swap: Lean ground turkey works perfectly for a lighter version.)
Tomato paste (60 mL / 4 tablespoons): Deepens the umami and enriches the chili’s body.
Spices: 30 mL (2 tablespoons) chili powder, 15 mL (1 tablespoon) smoked paprika, 10 mL (2 teaspoons) ground cumin, and 5 mL (1 teaspoon) dried oregano. This blend creates the signature warming, earthy, and smoky flavors. (Swap: If you’re out of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried marjoram can substitute.)
Seasoning: 5 mL (1 teaspoon) salt and 2.5 mL (1/2 teaspoon) freshly ground black pepper, or to taste, to bring out all the flavors.
Crushed tomatoes (795 g / 28 ounces can): Forms the rich, tangy liquid base. (For healthy eating, organic ingredients are a great choice here.)
Beef broth (475 mL / 2 cups): Adds moisture and savory depth. (Swap: Low-sodium vegetable broth is a good option if you prefer.)
Kidney beans (2 cans, each 425 g / 15 ounces), rinsed and drained: Adds fiber and bulk, making this a truly filling and family-friendly dish.
Orange zest (Zest of 1 small orange, about 5 mL / 1 teaspoon): A bright, aromatic secret ingredient that lifts the whole dish.

For the optional, but highly recommended, minted feta yogurt garnish:

Plain full-fat yogurt (120 mL / 1/2 cup), Feta cheese (60 g / 2 ounces), crumbled, Fresh mint (15 mL / 1 tablespoon), finely chopped, Fresh oregano (5 mL / 1 teaspoon), finely chopped, and Extra virgin olive oil (5 mL / 1 teaspoon): These combine for a refreshing, tangy, and vibrant topping. (Swap: Sour cream can replace yogurt if you’d like, though I find the yogurt lighter.)

This basic chili recipe is naturally gluten-free. For a low-carb meal, omit the beans and increase the ground meat and other vegetables like zucchini or extra bell peppers. Seasonal additions like fresh corn can add a delightful crunch. It’s truly a versatile option for healthy recipes for families.

Easy Preparation Method

Making this basic chili recipe is straightforward. Follow these steps for a rich, flavorful pot of goodness.

Sauté Aromatics (approx. 5-7 minutes)
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or a sturdy Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper and cook until they soften and become translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until you smell its fragrance, being careful not to let it burn.
Brown the Beef (approx. 8-10 minutes)
Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until the meat is thoroughly browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat, leaving just enough to coat the bottom of the pot.
Build Deep Flavor (approx. 3 minutes)
Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes and stirring constantly until it slightly darkens and caramelizes, adding a layer of rich flavor. Then, add the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to toast and become wonderfully fragrant.
Combine & Simmer (Initial 45-60 minutes)
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans along with the bright orange zest. Stir everything together gently. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for at least 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow all those incredible flavors to meld beautifully. If your chili seems too dry at this stage, splash in an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of beef broth or water.
Thicken & Finish (Final 15-20 minutes)
Uncover the pot and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the basic chili recipe has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir more frequently during this final stage to prevent sticking. If it’s too thin, a longer simmer without the lid will help. Conversely, if it becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more broth or water.
Prepare Garnish & Serve
While the chili simmers, prepare the minted feta yogurt: In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, crumbled feta, finely chopped fresh mint, and finely chopped fresh oregano. Mix well until creamy. Serve the hot chili in deep bowls, creating a prominent swirl of the minted feta yogurt on top. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with a few additional mint leaves or orange zest for a vibrant finish.

Shortcuts & Alternative Cooking Methods:

For faster prep, don’t hesitate to use pre-chopped onions and garlic found in the produce section; I often grab them for busy weeknights! Canned beans are already rinsed, saving significant time over dried beans.
Slow Cooker: After browning the meat and sautéing aromatics (steps 1-3), transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until flavors are developed and chili is thick.
Instant Pot: Use the ‘Sauté’ function to brown your meat and aromatics. Add remaining ingredients (excluding garnish). Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook for 15-20 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. This is a great quick meal option!

When & Where to Serve Your Basic Chili Recipe

This hearty basic chili recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a range of occasions. It’s one of those easy dinner ideas that truly delivers a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.

Weeknight Winners: Ideal for ‘What’s for dinner?’ nights when time is short.
Gatherings Galore: A crowd-pleaser for casual potlucks, game day get-togethers, or cozy family lunches.
Outdoor Fun: A warm, filling dish perfect for tailgating parties on a chilly afternoon.

Beyond the bowl, this dish can be reimagined for creative new meals:

Chili cheese dogs or crispy chili fries.
Loaded chili nachos for a fun snack.
Chili-stuffed baked potatoes for a complete meal.
A savory topping for simple rice bowls.

For storage, use airtight containers. It lasts 3–4 days in the fridge. For longer, freeze in single-serving portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition & Wellness Benefits

Our basic chili recipe is more than just tasty; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition, fitting perfectly into healthy eating plans for families. This makes it one of my go-to high-protein meals.

High in Protein: Fuels energy and builds muscle, great for active family members and fitness fueling.
Fiber-Rich: Beans and tomatoes contribute fiber for digestive health and satiety, helping you feel full longer.
Hearty & Wholesome: A balanced meal with vegetables, protein, and complex carbs, supporting overall wellness.
Kid-Friendly & Adaptable: Easy to customize for picky eaters, making it a great family-friendly option for sneaking in extra veggies.

This flexible dish fits specific goals like weight management (lean protein, fiber) and provides sustained energy, making it an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle.

Meal Planning & Budget Advantages

This basic chili recipe shines when it comes to meal planning and smart budgeting, making it a fantastic choice for quick meals without breaking the bank.

Prep time is roughly 15–20 minutes, with cook time around 20–30 minutes on the stovetop. Slow cooker methods extend cooking but reduce hands-on time.

You can estimate the cost at just $2–3 per serving. Save money by buying ground meat on sale, utilizing dried beans (cooked from scratch), and opting for store brands on canned goods. For weekly meal prep, make a double batch of this basic chili recipe on Sunday. Enjoy it fresh, then portion and freeze for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredient Shopping Tips

Sourcing your basic chili recipe ingredients is straightforward. You’ll find most items at your local supermarket.

Supermarkets: Your go-to for everyday items like ground beef, canned goods, and spices.
Farmers Markets: Great for fresh onions and seasonal bell peppers, adding vibrant flavor.
Online Grocery: Services like Instacart or Amazon Fresh offer convenience for all your ingredients, saving you a trip.

When choosing, opt for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10), firm, unblemished onions, and quality canned tomatoes. Consider organic ingredients for an extra boost in quality; many organic ground meat and canned goods are readily available. While this recipe is from-scratch, a chili meal kit can be an option for ultimate convenience if you’re in a pinch.

Pro Tips & Adjustments

Elevate your chili with these advanced cooking tricks for even richer flavor:

Blooming Spices: Sauté your chili powder and cumin in a little hot oil for about a minute before adding liquids; this deepens their flavor considerably.
Brightening Touch: A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens the taste and balances the richness.

Adjust the seasoning and heat to suit different palates:

More Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño (seeds in for maximum heat), or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while simmering.
Milder Flavor: Reduce the chili powder slightly.

For allergy-friendly adjustments, always ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free. For a nightshade allergy, substitute the diced tomatoes with pureed sweet potatoes and carrots mixed with broth for a similar texture and body.

FAQs

“Can I prep this basic chili recipe ahead for the week?”

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. I always make a double batch on Sunday; it makes my weekday lunches so much easier. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

“What’s the healthiest substitute for ground beef in this basic chili recipe?”

Lean ground turkey, extra-lean ground chicken, or a mix of lentils and mushrooms are excellent, healthy options. They reduce fat and add beneficial fiber, making this a great high-protein meal.

“Can I buy basic chili recipe ingredients online?”

Absolutely! Most major grocery delivery services and online retailers offer all the necessary ingredients. You can easily get everything from canned goods to fresh produce and meats delivered right to your door.

“Is this basic chili recipe good for weight loss?”

Yes, when made with lean meat or plant-based alternatives and plenty of veggies, this basic chili recipe can be a healthy, satisfying, and fiber-rich meal that supports weight loss goals. It’s a smart choice for low-carb meals if you reduce or omit the beans.

“How can I make my basic chili recipe spicier?”

To add more kick, include diced jalapeños (with or without seeds), a dash of cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce while simmering. Taste as you go to find your perfect heat level.

“What are some good toppings for basic chili recipe?”

Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for creaminess, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips or cornbread for texture. Choose what your family loves!

Conclusion

This basic chili recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a versatile, nutritious, and incredibly easy solution for busy home cooks seeking quick dinner ideas. I hope you enjoy its rich flavor, wholesome ingredients, and the convenience it brings to your kitchen. Ready to make dinner easier and more delicious? Print this recipe, pin it for later, or add the ingredients to your next grocery list and plan it into your weekly menu.