This homemade chili recipe is super filling, full of flavor, and the kind of meal that has everyone coming back for seconds! Whether you’re chasing off the chill of a fall evening or just craving something hearty and homemade, chili is always a win.
Pair it with freshly fried corn chips, and you’ve got the perfect bite!
Today, I’m sharing one of our go-to comfort meals: my favorite chili recipe and easy homemade corn chips. Of course this recipe is perfect for warming up on a chill fall day, but honestly it’s so easy and quick to bring together that it’s really a go-to for us year-round!
Ingredients for Homemade Chili:
- Ground Beef
- Onion
- Roma Tomatoes
- Jalapeno
- Black Beans
- Pinto Beans
- Salt and Pepper
- Chili Powder
- Paprika
- Onion Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Chipotle Powder
- Cayenne (optional)
- Tomato Juice
- Water
Ingredients for Fried Corn Chips
- Corn tortillas
- Cooking oil
What You Need to Make Homemade Chili + Fried Corn Chips:
- Cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- Large cooking pot or dutch oven
- Deep fryer
- Rack for straining fried chips
- Strainer spatula
Best Homemade Chili Recipe
This homemade chili recipe is super filling, full of flavor, and the kind of meal that has everyone coming back for seconds! Whether you're chasing off the chill of a fall evening or just craving something hearty and homemade, chili is always a win.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Ground Beef
- 2 tbs avocado oil + 1 pat butter
- 1 Onion
- 3 Roma Tomatoes
- 2 Jalapeno (one for topping)
- 1 Can Black Beans
- 2 Cans Pinto Beans
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 2 tsp Chili Powder
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Chipotle Powder (more or less to taste)
- Cayenne (optional)
- 1 Jar of Tomato Juice
- 1 Carton of Bone Broth or Water (just enough to top off)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and 1 pat of butter over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in the chopped onions, tomatoes, and jalapeño. Let everything sauté together until the veggies soften and start to cook down.
- While it’s cooking, season with salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.
- Pour in the tomato juice and water, then add the rest of your seasonings.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor and texture.
Crispy Corn Chips (Homemade Fritos)
Tips for the Perfect Chili Bowl Night:
- Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It’s a great make-ahead meal or freezer staple.
- Spice it your way: Like it mild or want some kick? Adjust the chili powder and add jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat.
- Topping bar idea: Let everyone customize their bowl—sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, avocado, fresh jalapeños, lime wedges, corn chips… whatever your crew loves.
- Double the chips: Trust me, they go fast. Make a big batch of corn chips and store extras in an airtight container once they cool completely.
- Cornbread on the side. Nothing beats a warm square of cornbread next to your chili. Try this easy homemade cornbread recipe →
How to Thicken Chili:
The best way to thicken chili is to let it do its thing—bring it to a boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer. The longer it simmers, the richer and thicker it gets. Just be careful not to add too much liquid in the beginning—use enough so it’s not dry, but not so much that it turns overly soupy.
Short on time? You can make a quick slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a bit of cold water, then stir it into the chili. Bring it back to a boil, then let it simmer as long as you can. Either way, you’ll end up with a hearty, scoopable chili that’s just right.
Why We Love This Meal
This is one of those recipes that feels like home. The smell of chili simmering on the stove, the sound of sizzling chips in the pan—it turns an ordinary evening into something cozy and special. It’s also budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and totally customizable.
Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting game night, sitting around the fire, or just need something to get through a busy weeknight—this chili + chips combo delivers.
Let’s Cook Together
If you try this recipe, I’d love to see it! Tag @TheHonestApron on Instagram or share your version in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more comfort food staples or cozy night inspiration, make sure you’re subscribed to the blog—there’s more goodness on the way.
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