Southwestern Beef Chili Burst

Name: Southwestern Beef Chili Burst
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Southwestern Beef Chili Burst, especially on chilly evenings. There's something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of this hearty chili, packed with bold flavors and a variety of textures. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables truly makes every bite delightful. Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. I promise, once you taste this chili, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:46:27.560Z

When I first tried to recreate a family recipe for Southwestern Beef Chili, I knew I wanted to add my twist to it. After several attempts, I landed on a combination of spices that not only elevated the flavor but also made the dish come together in perfect harmony. I discovered that using a mix of fresh peppers adds depth and richness that pre-packaged chili powders just can’t match.

The key to a great chili is the simmering time. I learned that allowing all the ingredients to mingle and combine flavors for at least 30 minutes makes a world of difference. It’s during this time that the spices bloom, creating that signature chili burst that everyone loves!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of spices that warms your soul
Loaded with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost
Perfect balance of heat and rich, savory flavor

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The cornerstone of Southwestern Beef Chili Burst is undoubtedly the combination of spices. Chili powder gives the dish its signature warmth, while cumin adds a nutty, earthy tone that complements the meat beautifully. Smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness, reminding me of campfire evenings. Together, these spices work to elevate the natural flavors of the ingredients, creating a robust base. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your taste, especially if you're cooking for a crowd with varying heat preferences.

Fresh vegetables are not just for aesthetics; they play crucial roles in the flavor and texture profile of the chili. Diced tomatoes bring acidity, balancing the richness of the beef, while the bell peppers contribute a natural sweetness and crunch. Onion and garlic team up to provide aromatic depth, making each spoonful fragrant and satisfying. For a twist, consider adding corn or zucchini, which can contribute sweetness and a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chili

Browning the ground beef properly is essential for depth of flavor. Cook it over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it forms a golden crust—this caramelization releases natural sugars that enhance the overall richness of the chili. If your beef is releasing a lot of fat, don't hesitate to drain it, as excessive grease can make the chili too rich and heavy.

Simmering is another key step that should not be rushed. After adding the broth, let the chili bubble gently for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, and keep an eye on the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth or water; if it’s too watery, simply let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens to your preference.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious chili:

Chili Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Southwestern Beef Chili Burst:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, break up the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, if necessary.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the diced red and green bell peppers.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, mixing well. Add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the mixture.

Pour in Broth

Pour the beef broth into the pot and stir. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade chili with some crusty bread or rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of beans or add corn for additional sweetness and texture.

Serving Suggestions

To really enhance your Southwestern Beef Chili Burst, consider a variety of toppings. A sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a rich flavor contrast. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a refreshing tang, especially if the chili has a bit of heat. For herbal freshness, cilantro or chopped green onions can brighten each bowl and elevate the dish visually.

Serve your chili alongside cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. If you’re planning a larger gathering, setting up a chili bar is a fun way to allow guests to customize their bowls with varied toppings. Providing options like diced avocado, jalapeños, or even different cheeses can really cater to diverse tastes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chili is a great make-ahead option! The flavors only improve as it sits, making it excellent for meal prep. Cook the chili, let it cool down, and transfer it to an airtight container. It'll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer without sacrificing flavor.

When reheating, add a splash of broth to help restore its consistency. Heat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often, until it’s heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent splatters and reheat in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables before transferring everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

→ Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you check that your chili powder and beef broth are gluten-free, this recipe is safe for a gluten-free diet.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.