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This easy homemade chili recipe is packed with bold flavors, tender ground beef, and the perfect blend of spices. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, this hearty meal is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or game day. Made with pantry staples and simple ingredients, it’s a comforting dish the whole family will love. Customize it with your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Get ready for a warm, satisfying bowl of classic chili that’s rich, thick, and full of flavor!

Ingredients

2 lbs. ground beef (80% lean)
2 cloves garlic, diced
8 oz. tomato sauce
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup masa harina (white or yellow)
15 oz. kidney beans, drained and rinsed
15 oz. pinto beans, drained and rinsed
14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (Instant Pot version only)

Garnish Options

Shredded Cheddar
Lime Wedges
Sour Cream
Tortilla Chips or Fritos
Diced Green Onions

Stove Top Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
Add the garlic and tomato sauce, cooking for 1 minute.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- If the chili appears too dry, add ½ cup of water.
In a small bowl, mix masa harina with ½ cup water until smooth. Stir into the chili.
Add the drained beans and simmer for 10 minutes.
Adjust consistency by adding more masa and/or water if needed. Serve with garnishes and cornbread!

Crock Pot Instructions

In a large pot (or a stove-top safe Crock Pot), cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
Add the garlic and tomato sauce, cooking for 1 minute.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Transfer mixture to the Crock Pot.
In a small bowl, mix masa harina with ½ cup water and stir it into the Crock Pot.
Add the beans and gently mix everything together.
Cook on low for 4 hours or all day.
Adjust thickness by adding more masa and/or water as needed. Serve with garnishes.

Instant Pot Instructions

Use diced tomatoes for this version.
Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
Add the garlic and tomato sauce, cooking for 1 minute.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
In a small bowl, mix masa harina with ½ cup water. Stir into the Instant Pot.
Add the diced tomatoes with juices and beans. Stir to combine.
Close the lid, ensure the pressure valve is shut, and set the Instant Pot to Chili/Beans mode for 20 minutes.
Quick-release the steam valve or allow it to release naturally. Serve with garnishes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty & Flavorful: A rich blend of spices, beef, and beans creates a comforting meal.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add toppings, or switch up the beans.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, leftovers taste even better.
Three Cooking Methods: Choose from stovetop, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot for flexibility.

Tips

For Thicker Chili: Add more masa harina mixed with water.
For a Spicier Kick: Increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
Make it Meaty: Use a mix of ground beef and ground sausage for extra flavor.
Add Depth: A splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami taste.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Bean Swaps: Try black beans or garbanzo beans for a twist.
Vegetarian Option: Omit beef and use an extra can of beans.
Gluten-Free: Ensure masa harina is certified gluten-free or substitute cornmeal.
Low-Carb: Skip the beans and use extra beef or mushrooms.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Chili flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

What can I use instead of masa harina?
Cornmeal or crushed tortilla chips blended into a paste work as substitutes.

Can I cook this without beans?
Yes! Omit beans for a Texas-style chili variation.

Serving Suggestions

With Cornbread: A classic side that pairs perfectly with chili.
Over Rice: Adds a hearty base for a filling meal.
As a Topping: Spoon over baked potatoes or nachos.
With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness.
In a Bread Bowl: Serve inside a hollowed-out bread loaf for a fun presentation.

This classic chili is packed with bold flavors, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion!