If you want a cozy meal, try this Paula Deen Beef Chili Recipe. It is warm, hearty and full of flavor. This classic dish is perfect for cold nights or game days.
Many people love how easy it is to make. You only need one pot and a few simple steps.
Learning how to make Paula Deen Beef Chili will make you the star of your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious, beefy comfort food today!
My Experience With This Paula Deen Beef Chili
I first tried this recipe on a rainy Sunday afternoon. The smell of browning beef and spices filled my entire home. It felt so welcoming and warm.
What I love most is the thick texture. It isn’t watery like some other chili recipes. The green peppers add a nice crunch and fresh taste.
My family asked for seconds before their first bowl was even empty! It is now my go-to meal for hosting friends. It is simple, reliable and tastes like a big hug.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Paula Deen Beef Chili
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 60 mins
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Equipment List
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Beef Chili
- 2 lbs Ground beef (lean is best)
- 1 Large onion, chopped
- 1 Green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz) Kidney beans, drained
- 2 cans (14.5 oz) Diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) Tomato sauce
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 2 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Place the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until the meat is no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces.
2. Drain the Fat
Carefully tilt the pot to pour out the excess grease. This keeps the chili from being too oily. Return the pot to the stove once the fat is gone.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onions and green peppers to the beef. Cook for five minutes until they are soft. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute of cooking.
4. Add the Liquids
Pour in the diced tomatoes and the tomato sauce. Add the beef broth to the pot as well. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and red.
5. Stir in Spices
Add the chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. These spices give the dish its famous kick. Stir well so the flavor spreads throughout the entire pot of beef.
6. Mix the Beans
Add the drained kidney beans to the mixture. Stir gently so you do not mash the beans. They add great texture and protein to the savory beef chili.
7. Simmer the Chili
Lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend perfectly together.
Recipe Tips
- Brown the meat well: Let the beef get a little crispy for better flavor.
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic tastes much better than the jarred kind.
- Let it sit: Chili often tastes even better the next day.
- Control the heat: Add a pinch of cayenne if you like it extra spicy.
- Don’t overcook beans: Add them toward the end so they stay firm.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fiber | 8g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot in deep bowls to keep it warm. You can set up a “topping bar” for your guests. Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and sliced jalapeños.
A squeeze of fresh lime can also brighten the heavy flavors. It is a very filling meal on its own. However, adding a few crunchy elements makes the eating experience much more exciting.
Best Sides To Serve With
A side of sweet cornbread is the most classic choice. You can also serve it over white rice or even pasta. Some people love dipping salty crackers or tortilla chips into the sauce.
A simple green salad on the side helps balance the richness. If you want something fun, try serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze this chili for up to three months. To reheat, put it in a pot over medium-low heat.
Add a splash of water or broth if it looks too thick. You can also use a microwave for a quick lunch. Just cover the bowl to prevent splatters!

Paula Deen Beef Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Ground beef lean is best
- 1 Large onion chopped
- 1 Green bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 cans 15 oz Kidney beans, drained
- 2 cans 14.5 oz Diced tomatoes
- 1 can 15 oz Tomato sauce
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 2 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Brown the Beef
- Place the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until the meat is no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces.
Drain the Fat
- Carefully tilt the pot to pour out the excess grease. This keeps the chili from being too oily. Return the pot to the stove once the fat is gone.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onions and green peppers to the beef. Cook for five minutes until they are soft. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute of cooking.
Add the Liquids
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and the tomato sauce. Add the beef broth to the pot as well. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and red.
Stir in Spices
- Add the chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. These spices give the dish its famous kick. Stir well so the flavor spreads throughout the entire pot of beef.
Mix the Beans
- Add the drained kidney beans to the mixture. Stir gently so you do not mash the beans. They add great texture and protein to the savory beef chili.
Simmer the Chili
- Lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend perfectly together.
Notes
- Brown the meat well: Let the beef get a little crispy for better flavor.
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic tastes much better than the jarred kind.
- Let it sit: Chili often tastes even better the next day.
- Control the heat: Add a pinch of cayenne if you like it extra spicy.
- Don’t overcook beans: Add them toward the end so they stay firm.
FAQs about Paula Deen Beef Chili Recipe
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can easily swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken. It will be leaner and have a lighter taste. Just make sure to season it well.
How do I make the chili thicker?
You can let it simmer longer without a lid. This allows the liquid to evaporate. Another trick is to mash a few beans against the side of the pot.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you want it hot, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. You can adjust the spices to your own liking.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and veggies first. Then, put everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
Conclusion
This Paula Deen Beef Chili Recipe is a true kitchen classic. It is easy, filling and uses simple ingredients.
Whether you are feeding a crowd or meal prepping, it never fails. The rich tomato base and hearty beef make it a winner every time. I hope you enjoy making this warm dish for your loved ones.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.


















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