Homemade Mexican Beef Chili
Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying? Look no further than this Homemade Mexican Beef Chili. Packed with tender ground beef, pinto beans, and a medley of aromatic spices, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. The best part? It simmers to perfection in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, savory chili.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 3 cups dried pinto beans
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
- 32 ounces chicken broth
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 chopped red bell pepper
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2½ teaspoons chili powder
Instructions
1️⃣ Soak the Beans (Optional)
If you have time, soak the dried pinto beans in water overnight or for at least 1 hour. This step softens the beans, reduces cooking time, and helps them achieve a creamier texture. While optional, it’s highly recommended for best results.
2️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients
While the beans soak, prep the fresh ingredients. Chop the onion, red bell pepper, and celery stalks. Mince the garlic cloves. This will save you time later during cooking.
3️⃣ Combine Everything in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, combine the following ingredients:
- Ground beef (no need to pre-cook)
- Soaked (or unsoaked) pinto beans
- Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Chopped onion, red bell pepper, garlic, and celery
- All the seasonings (salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and chili powder)
Stir everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
4️⃣ Cook the Chili
Set your crockpot to high and cook for 4 hours if the beans were pre-soaked. If you skipped soaking, you may need to cook it for 5 to 6 hours or until the beans are tender. For those who prefer a slower, hands-off method, you can also set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours.
5️⃣ Check for Doneness
Test the beans for tenderness. If they’re soft and easy to mash with a fork, the chili is ready. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed — you may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra kick.
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings, such as:
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
- Chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips or cornbread on the side
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich Flavor: The combination of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef, and chicken broth creates a deep, savory base.
- Hearty and Filling: Protein-packed beef and fiber-rich pinto beans make this a satisfying, nutritious meal.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep, the crockpot does all the work. Toss in the ingredients, and in a few hours, you’ll have a delicious, slow-cooked chili.
- Customizable: Add jalapeños for heat, corn for sweetness, or even swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
This Homemade Mexican Beef Chili is a classic comfort food that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s an easy, flavorful choice. Enjoy it on its own or paired with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Pro Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave for a quick, cozy meal anytime.
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious homemade chili! 🌶️🍲