Best Chili Recipe with Beef

Why This Pub-Style Beef Chili Is the Best

When you think of classic pub comfort food, a big bowl of rich, hearty beef chili is right at the top. This recipe is inspired by the satisfying meals you find in traditional pubs — deeply flavorful, warming, and utterly crave-worthy.

Using quality ground beef simmered with tomatoes, beans, and a well-balanced spice blend, this chili delivers bold, robust flavor without relying on alcohol or specialty ingredients like beer or whiskey. It’s family-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for chilly evenings or game day gatherings.

Unlike overly complex chili recipes, this pub-style chili strikes the perfect balance between simple ingredients and deep, comforting flavor — a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for the Best Pub-Style Beef Chili

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (85% lean recommended)

• 1 large onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro

Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Ultimate Pub-Style Beef Chili

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add diced onion and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften — about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink — approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired for a leaner chili.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the spices, letting them toast for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything thoroughly, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits — this adds depth to the chili.

Step 5: Add the Beans and Simmer

Gently fold in the rinsed kidney beans and black beans. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and let simmer gently for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking melds the flavors and thickens the chili beautifully.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments

After simmering, taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, chili powder, or pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a classic pub-style experience.

Why This Chili Stands Out

• Rich, Robust Flavor: A careful balance of spices, fresh aromatics, and slow simmering brings out complex flavor without alcohol or beer.

• Hearty and Filling: Using a blend of kidney and black beans adds fiber and texture, making it a complete meal.

• Customizable: Easy to adjust the heat and seasoning to your liking.

• Family-Friendly: No intimidating ingredients; straightforward and approachable for all skill levels.

Nutrition Highlights

• High in protein from lean ground beef and beans

• Fiber-rich thanks to the beans and veggies

• Moderated fat content with lean meat and optional fat draining

• Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins from tomatoes and peppers

• Gluten-free when paired with gluten-free sides

Tips for the Best Pub-Style Beef Chili

• Use fresh, high-quality ground beef: The flavor foundation of your chili.

• Don’t rush the simmer: Letting it cook low and slow helps flavors meld and thickens the chili naturally.

• Toast spices: Adding spices early in the cooking process develops their aroma and depth.

• Beans: Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and improve texture.

• Adjust heat carefully: Start mild; add extra chili powder or cayenne later if you want more kick.

• Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day — perfect for batch cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chili topped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and a spoonful of sour cream.

• Pair with classic pub sides: cornbread, crusty rolls, or tortilla chips.

• Add a fresh salad or steamed greens to balance the hearty chili.

• For extra indulgence, serve chili over baked potatoes or alongside garlic mashed potatoes.

Storage and Meal Prep

• Refrigerate: Store chili in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this chili without beans?

Yes! You can omit beans for a more traditional Texas-style chili or substitute with extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken works well and makes a lighter chili. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this chili spicy?

This recipe is moderately spiced but can be adjusted. Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté vegetables first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I thicken the chili if it’s too watery?

Simmer uncovered for longer to reduce liquid, or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Hearty Pub-Style Beef Chili recipe is the ultimate go-to for cozy, comforting meals. It perfectly captures the essence of classic chili without relying on alcohol, making it approachable and family-friendly. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, feeding a hungry crowd, or enjoying a quiet night in, this chili will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.

Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s hailed as the best classic pub-style chili you can make at home — rich, robust, and bursting with flavor.