Southwestern Beef Chili Burst

Name: Southwestern Beef Chili Burst
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup beef broth; Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I can't get enough of this Southwestern Beef Chili Burst! It's become my go-to dish for both cozy nights in and spirited gatherings with friends. The warmth of bold spices combined with the richness of beef creates an incredible depth of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the recipe is wonderfully versatile; I love adding my own spin with different beans and vegetables. Each bowl is a comforting hug that brings a little sunshine to chilly days, and it's just so easy to whip up!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:38:28.737Z

Making this Southwestern Beef Chili Burst has turned into a cherished ritual for me, especially when the weather starts to cool down. I remember the first time I made it; I was blown away by how simple ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and beans could meld together into something so hearty and delicious. The secret is to let it simmer long enough for the flavors to truly develop, and I promise, it'll be worth every minute!

I've experimented with various toppings—like sour cream, avocado, and fresh cilantro—and each adds a delightful touch that elevates the dish. It's become a family favorite, and I often find myself doubling the recipe to ensure there are leftovers for the next day's lunch. Every time I serve it, I get compliments, and it always warms my heart!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of spices that pleases every palate
Hearty and filling, ideal for feeding a crowd
Great for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
Can easily be adapted with your favorite ingredients

Flavorful Layering Techniques

The secret to a deeply flavorful chili lies in the layering of ingredients and spices. When browning the ground beef, make sure to leave some bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, as these browned bits will add rich flavor to your chili. Use a wooden spoon to scrape them off as you deglaze the pan with the broth later – this not only enhances the taste but gives your dish a nice depth.

Incorporating the spices after the meat has browned is also essential. This timing helps release essential oils in the spices, infusing them into the meat and creating a fragrant base. The aroma will entice everyone in the kitchen, setting the stage for a cozy meal. Make sure to sauté the spices until they become aromatic, usually around 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Ingredient Adjustments and Additions

Flexibility is the hallmark of this chili recipe. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, which is just as tasty! If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with additional beans or diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Just be sure to increase the spices a bit to maintain the flavor balance.

Feel free to experiment with the types of beans used in this chili. Beyond kidney and black beans, you could try pinto beans or even chickpeas for an interesting twist. Remember to keep an eye on the liquid levels in the pot, as different beans will absorb varying amounts of broth during the cooking process, potentially requiring you to adjust liquid accordingly.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Southwestern Beef Chili Burst is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the chili thickens in the fridge, add a splash of beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing this hearty chili with cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for added texture. If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that counterbalances the spiciness beautifully. Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh note that brightens the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup beef broth
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your perfect chili:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Mix in the Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and release the spices' aroma.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Chili

Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, or cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious Southwestern Beef Chili Burst!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also use a slow cooker
just brown the beef before adding all ingredients to the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chili comes out too thin, consider simmering it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. This will concentrate the flavors and result in a heartier consistency. Alternatively, you could mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it quickly.

On the flip side, if your chili turns out too thick, adding small amounts of beef broth or water can help achieve a smoother, more enjoyable texture. Start with a quarter cup at a time, stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency.

Scaling Up for a Crowd

Planning to feed a crowd? This chili recipe scales beautifully. Simply double or triple the ingredients, keeping the same ratios. Make sure to use a larger pot or even a slow cooker for best results, as it allows for even cooking and easier stirring. You’ll want to adjust your cooking time slightly, allowing for a longer simmer to ensure that all flavors meld together nicely.

When scaling up, consider pre-chopping your vegetables and portioning your spices in advance to speed up the cooking process. This prep work can make it a breeze! Additionally, remember that large batches may take a bit longer to come to a simmer, so be patient and don’t rush the process for the best flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well in this recipe and is a healthier alternative.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Substitute the beef with lentils or more beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ Can I freeze the chili?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.