Smoky Beef & Black Bean Chili

Thomas Ainsworth

This hearty, spiced chili is inspired by classic Southwestern flavors and slow-cooked traditions. It melds smoky chipotle, savory ground beef, and earthy black beans into a deeply satisfying dish. Ideal for cold evenings, game-day gatherings, or make-ahead weekday meals, this chili offers bold, warming comfort in every spoonful.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1 30

Total Time 1 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Latin American / Caribbean

Servings bowls

Calories 486 kcal

Equipment

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Chef's Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

For the Base:

2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
1 large yellow onion diced
4 cloves garlic minced
1.5 pounds ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio preferred
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, fire-roasted preferred
2 cups beef broth preferably low-sodium
2 cans black beans 15 oz each, drained and rinsed

For the Spices & Seasoning:

1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
0.5 teaspoon chipotle powder or more to taste
1 teaspoon kosher salt or more to taste
0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C). Add diced onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add the ground beef, crumbling it into the pot. Brown for 8–10 minutes until no longer pink and beginning to caramelize slightly.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to build umami richness.
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until beef is well-coated and spices are fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Add black beans and simmer for an additional 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add jalapeños or more chipotle powder.
Ground turkey or plant-based meat can substitute for ground beef.
A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the chili wonderfully.

Nutrition

Calories: 486kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 81mgSodium: 786mgPotassium: 916mgFiber: 9gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 985IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 93mgIron: 6mg

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