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) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Southwestern Beef Chili Burst when I'm looking for a hearty meal that packs a punch. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients brings together a symphony of flavors that warms me up from the inside out. It’s perfect for cool evenings, potlucks, or simply when I crave something comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what I have in my pantry. Let me take you through this delightful recipe that never fails to impress.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:14:28.556Z

When I first experimented with this Southwestern Beef Chili, I aimed for a balance between heat and richness. I discovered that using fresh bell peppers and a mix of spices like cumin and smoked paprika really elevated the flavor. The result was a chili that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion.

One secret to making this chili irresistible is to let it simmer longer. This allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that can’t be rushed. I often top it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to add brightness. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold flavors from a perfect spice blend
Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste
Perfect for meal prep and freezing for future use

      

Building Layers of Flavor

The magic of Southwestern Beef Chili Burst lies not just in its ingredients, but in the way they’re layered together. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they're translucent helps to release their natural sugars and aromatics, creating a fragrant base for the dish. This step is crucial; avoid rushing it! Allowing them to soften for about three minutes will ensure that they meld beautifully with the other vegetables and spices, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.

Spices are the soul of this chili. When you stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, consider toasting them lightly in the pot for a minute before adding the liquids. This will awaken their essential oils and deepen that rich, savory profile that defines a great chili. If you're a fan of heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to boost the spiciness to your preference.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, and you can customize it based on ingredients you have on hand. For the ground beef, lean turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives can work well while providing a similar texture. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, substituting half of the beef with finely chopped mushrooms adds earthiness while reducing fat content. Just make sure to sauté them until their moisture evaporates to avoid a watery chili.

Don't hesitate to swap beans in this chili! While black and kidney beans give a nice mix of textures, pinto beans or even chickpeas can be used interchangeably. If you're looking to make the dish gluten-free, be sure to check that your broth is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten additives.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for a delicious chili experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Southwestern Beef Chili Burst:

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, add the bell peppers and cook until they are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the browned beef, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful chili with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. This chili can also be tailored to your taste by adjusting the spices or adding other vegetables.

Preparation and Storage Tips

Preparing Southwestern Beef Chili Burst in advance can save time during busy weeks. The flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge, so making it ahead is a fantastic idea. If securely stored in an airtight container, it can last for up to five days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let the chili cool down before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

If you’re planning to freeze portions, allow the chili to cool completely before adding it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. I like to add a splash of beef broth during reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This chili can be served in various delightful ways! I often enjoy it alongside crusty cornbread or over a bowl of fluffy rice for a complete meal. You can also transform leftovers into a taco filling by simply seasoning some tortillas with lime before adding the chili, topped with fresh avocado and cheese for an extra kick.

For an added layer of flavor and texture, consider garnishing each bowl with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or even some shredded cheese. Fresh cilantro not only brightens the overall presentation but also brings a burst of freshness with every bite. Lime wedges squeezed over the top can elevate the chili's flavors even further, making it even more irresistible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

→ Can I add more beans?

Yes! Feel free to mix in any beans you love, such as pinto beans or garbanzo beans.

→ What's the best way to reheat chili?

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.