BEST Chili Recipe Ever! (classic beef chili) (2024)

This is the BEST classic beef chili recipe ever, and is a family favorite, and it has also become an audience favorite. You can make it in an Instant Pot, slow cooker or on the stovetop.

Note: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

Friends – this is the last chili recipe you will ever need. Pinkie promise. I have gotten SO much positive feedback on this one, and many of you call it the best chili recipe ever. And I am so thankful and humbled by that description, truly.

In fact, this classic beef chili recipe has been on the blog for over five years now. And it took me years of trial and error to develop. So I thought it deserved some new photos and a republish.

I have to admit: The flavor profile is insanely good. And you can make this classic chili recipe in multiple devices, thanks to multiple sets of instructions. The stovetop was how I first started making this classic beef chili.

And over the years, I adapted it for both the slow cooker and the Instant Pot as well. Instant Pot chili recipe has been moved to this post.

And I cannot tell you how many people have told me this is the best chili recipe they have ever tried. It did take me years of tweaking. I would estimate I have made it hundreds of times, trying multiple methods and ingredient combinations.

How to make the BEST beef chili recipe

First, gather your ingredients.

Ingredients

Note: you can totally use some stock (beef or vegetable) in place of the red wine, and we do that often.

Making the best chili ever

Stir in onion, peppers, garlic, spices, wine/broth, maple syrup, salt and pepper. Continue to cook over medium heat for another 8-10 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

Add the kidney beans, tomatoes, green chiles, ketchup and hot sauce, and bring to a boil.Reduce heat and simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, partially covered (I just tilt the lid to leave a slight gap), stirring frequently.

Now you can get creative a choose toppings here. Some of my favorite toppings for chili:

• shredded cheese
• green onion
• cilan tro
• diced avocado
• guacamole
• tortilla chips
• sour cream
• sliced olives

Use your creativity, and top however you wish. Then serve and enjoy!

Cooking method notes & tips

Now! A bit about the other methods for making the best chili recipe ever. When I make it on the stovetop or slow cooker I double this recipe. Because we eat the heck out of some chili. Plus, it freezes really well.

I use a large stock pot on the stovetop, and I have a large slow cooker like this one that can accommodate a double batch.

No matter which way you make it, you need this recipe in your dinner rotation because it is a real crowd-pleaser, y’all! It is so good and flavorful. It is truly a family favorite, and I hope y’all enjoy it as much as we have!

Modifications and substitutions

Also, this recipe is very forgiving. The recipe listed below is what is best, in my opinion. I will list some substitutions that I have made over the years.

• I’ve used plain sugar instead of maple syrup
• Used beef stock and/or vegetable stock instead of wine.
• I’ve used two cans of Ro-tele instead of the tomatoes and green chiles.
• Used dry beans that I cooked up first. You can do this in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker! I just weigh out 28 ounces on my food scale, plus between 2/3 cup and 1 cup cooking liquid from the beans.
• I’ve used every color bell pepper, or even the mixed color pre-diced peppers from the grocery store.
• Used frozen diced onions (about a cup). Yes, these are actually a thing! I got mine at Publix in the freezer section.
• Bottled minced garlic – about a Tablespoon.
• Tomato sauce in place of ketchup
• Impossible vegan beef substitute in place of actual beef – so good!

Also be sure and check out ALL my soup recipes here.

Tools used to make this recipe

Note: These are Amazon affiliate links.

• stock pot(use for a double batch) or slow cooker – For this recipe (not double batch) I have also used my multipurpose pot and my enameled cast iron dutch oven.
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cup and measuring spoons

BEST Classic Chili Recipe

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Classic beef chili originally appeared on A Pinch of Healthy October 10, 2016. It has been updated with new photos. Here is what it used to look like.

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