Beef and Veggie Chili Recipe for a Hearty, Healthy Meal

When the cold weather rolls in or you crave something hearty and packed with flavor, a warm bowl of beef and veggie chili is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe perfectly balances rich, savory ground beef with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, creating a dish that’s both filling and nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this chili never disappoints. The slow-simmered spices and chunky vegetables meld beautifully, delivering bold flavors with every spoonful.

Not only is this chili delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the heat, swap veggies based on what you have, or make it as thick or soupy as you like.

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup after you indulge. Let’s dive into the details so you can create your own perfect pot of beef and veggie chili today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and veggie chili recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, the combination of lean ground beef and an array of colorful vegetables makes it a well-rounded meal that satisfies both meat lovers and those looking to sneak in more greens.

The chili is packed with flavor thanks to a carefully curated spice blend, including chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, which provide just the right amount of warmth and smokiness without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

It’s also incredibly flexible—you can easily customize it to be milder or spicier depending on your preference.

Another highlight is how easy it is to prepare. You only need one large pot to cook everything, making it perfect for busy weeknights or batch cooking.

And since it tastes even better the next day, it’s a great option for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Serving bowls
• Ladle (for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use your spoon to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink.
4. Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the meat and allow the spices to toast for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the diced red and green bell peppers, carrots, and corn to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for 5 minutes, letting the veggies soften slightly.
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
7. Drain and rinse the black beans and kidney beans, then add them to the pot. Stir to mix.
8. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld—up to 1 hour if you have the time.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you want it spicier.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or try a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly chili.”

If you prefer a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of cooking to let excess liquid evaporate. For a soupier consistency, add more broth or a splash of water.

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes. Adding a touch of dark chocolate or a splash of beer during simmering can also deepen the flavor beautifully.

For a smoky flavor boost, consider adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a dash of liquid smoke. And if you love spice, fresh jalapeños or hot sauce on top will do the trick!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chili is fantastic served on its own, but you can also elevate your meal with some great accompaniments. Try spooning it over steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a filling feast.

Warm cornbread or crusty bread are perfect for dipping into the rich sauce. For a lighter side, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers excellent balance.

To top it off, consider shredded cheese, sliced avocado, or pickled jalapeños to add layers of texture and flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a spoonful of guacamole or a drizzle of vegan sour cream.

Conclusion

This beef and veggie chili recipe is a delicious, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich flavors, combined with nourishing vegetables, make it a well-loved classic that’s perfect year-round.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for yourself, this chili is simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable.

With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s satisfying and wholesome. Plus, its ease of preparation and excellent leftover potential make it a go-to recipe for busy lifestyles.

For more inspiration on hearty, nutritious meals, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore tasty spice blends like our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

So next time you crave a cozy, flavorful meal, whip up this beef and veggie chili and enjoy every comforting bite!

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