Warm Up Your Kitchen with Grandma’s Classic Chili with Beans Recipe

Photo byAngie Bright

There’s something magical about a bowl of chili, especially when it’s made from an old family recipe. Grandma’s Chili with Beans is more than just a meal – it’s a bowl of warmth and comfort, bringing families together around the dinner table for generations. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a casual gathering, this classic dish offers the perfect combination of hearty, savory flavors that satisfy every time.

The Secret to Grandma’s Chili What sets Grandma’s Chili apart from the rest is its simple, timeless ingredients and the slow simmering process that allows all the flavors to meld together. Ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a perfect blend of spices come together to create a flavorful, thick chili that’s both satisfying and filling. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite.

One of the best things about this chili recipe is its versatility. It’s great for a family dinner, but it also works for meal prepping – the flavors only improve after sitting in the fridge for a day or two. And the toppings? Endless possibilities. From shredded cheddar cheese to crispy crackers or a dollop of sour cream, you can make this chili your own.

Grandma's Chili with Beans Recipe Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef, chuck preferred
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small-medium onion, diced
• 2 large cans stewed tomatoes
• 2 cans dark red kidney beans, drained
• 1 can condensed tomato soup
• 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons regular chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper. Brown it in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven or stew pot over medium-high heat until it's fully cooked.
2. Once the beef is browned, add in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Next, add the stewed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, condensed tomato soup, minced garlic, chili powder, and crushed red pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once the chili is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 to 60 minutes. Make sure to give it a good stir every 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
5. While the chili can be served immediately, it tastes even better if you refrigerate it for 24 hours. The extra time allows the flavors to deepen and meld together.
6. When you're ready to serve, top your bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, crackers, or any of your favorite chili toppings. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal with family and friends.

The Perfect Comfort Dish Grandma’s Chili with Beans is the kind of recipe that evokes memories of cozy family gatherings and home-cooked meals. The rich tomato base, combined with the heartiness of the beans and ground beef, makes for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This chili is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a game day party, a weeknight dinner, or a make-ahead meal that keeps getting better the longer it sits.

With a bowl of this chili, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re savoring the love and care that goes into every pot. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or tweak it to your taste, one thing is certain: Grandma’s Chili with Beans is a timeless dish that will always bring warmth to the table.

For making chili with stewed tomatoes, ground beef, and beans like in your grandma's recipe, stewed tomatoes can offer a rich, more concentrated flavor. These tomatoes have a softer texture and more liquid compared to diced tomatoes, which may result in a thinner consistency. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can adjust by draining some of the liquid from the stewed tomatoes or by adding a thickener like tomato paste. Additionally, letting the chili simmer longer helps the flavors meld and thickens the overall dish​(Resto NYC)​(Southern Food and Fun).

Using kidney beans in chili provides both protein and fiber, and it's a classic addition to many chili recipes. If you're looking to maintain a heartier, thicker texture, you might also want to increase the quantity of beans or reduce the amount of extra liquid in the recipe​(Allrecipes)​(Savoring Italy).

These adjustments can help ensure that your chili has the perfect consistency and a rich, flavorful taste every time.