Empress Chili Recipe: Hearty Comfort Food in a Bowl

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of Empress Chili to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This recipe delivers a rich, hearty blend of flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite, perfect for chilly evenings or game day gatherings.

With tender ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is both nourishing and delicious, served hot and ready in under an hour.

Ingredients for Empress Chili

Hearty ingredients come together for a comforting bowl of chili, ready in under an hour.

For the best flavor, use 80/20 ground beef—the extra fat makes it rich. Most grocery stores carry it, or you can ask your butcher. If you’re feeling fancy, Costco often has great deals on bulk ground beef. Onions are a must, so grab a few extras while you’re at it.

No chili powder? Mix equal parts cumin, paprika, and oregano for a decent substitute. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne, or serve with hot sauce on the side. The beans can be swapped—pinto or navy work too. If using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, adjust the broth amount.

This chili gets better with time. Make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. I portion mine into containers so lunches are sorted for the week.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Empress Chili

Let’s create this comforting bowl of goodness together, step by step.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the 1.5 lb Ground Beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is fully browned and there’s no visible pink color remaining.

Once browned, drain the excess fat from the pot, leaving about 2 tablespoons behind to keep the chili rich and flavorful. This step is crucial as it prevents the chili from becoming too greasy.

Step 2: Soften the Vegetables

Add the 1 whole Onion and 1 whole Red Bell Pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma of cooking vegetables will fill your kitchen, signaling that the base of your chili is developing.

Then, add the 4 cloves Garlic Cloves and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic will release its fragrance and blend with the other vegetables.

Step 3: Add Chili Powder and Other Spices

Stir in the 2 tbsp Chili Powder, 1 tsp Ground Cumin, 1 tsp Paprika, and 0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant, coating the meat and vegetables evenly. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your chili.

The spices will start to darken the mixture and create a rich, complex aroma. Be careful not to burn the spices, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to bitter.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Add the 1 can Diced Tomatoes, 2 tbsp Tomato Paste, 1 can Kidney Beans, 1 can Black Beans, 2 cups Beef Broth, 1 tsp Salt, and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the thicker and more flavorful the chili will become. You’ll know it’s ready when the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with your favorite toppings, such as chopped onions, sour cream, or shredded cheese, to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

This comforting bowl of empress chili is perfect for a chilly evening, providing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture that make this dish a true comfort food classic.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

The Perfect Pot

For Empress Chili, a large Dutch oven or heavy pot is essential. I recommend a 5-quart Le Creuset or similar enameled cast iron pot. The heavy bottom distributes heat evenly, preventing scorching during the long simmer. 🔥

Essential Utensils

You’ll need a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring and breaking up the ground beef. A meat thermometer ensures your beef is cooked to a safe 160°F internal temperature. For prep work, keep a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board handy.

Specialty Tools

While not mandatory, a garlic press makes mincing garlic effortless. If you have a spice grinder, use it to freshly grind your cumin and paprika for maximum flavor. Some cooks swear by an immersion blender for thickening the chili to the perfect consistency.

Cooking Essentials

Accurate temperature control is crucial, so invest in a reliable kitchen thermometer. For simmering, a heavy lid helps maintain consistent heat. If you plan on making chili regularly, consider a programmable slow cooker for hands-off cooking.

Storage Containers

After cooking, you’ll need airtight containers for storing leftovers. Glass containers with snap-on lids work well, or you can use heavy-duty freezer bags for longer storage. Make sure they’re BPA-free and suitable for both refrigerator and freezer use.

Optional Equipment

For a smoky flavor, consider using a smoker gun or adding liquid smoke during the simmering process. If you prefer a thicker chili, a potato masher can help break down ingredients and thicken the sauce naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions