Ground Beef Chili with Corn and Jalapeños

Hearty, flavorful, and packed with a satisfying kick, ground beef chili with corn and jalapeños is a comforting classic with a delicious twist. This recipe elevates the traditional chili with the sweetness of corn and the spicy bite of jalapeños, creating a balanced and unforgettable meal. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing dish for a weekend gathering, this chili is guaranteed to deliver.

The Secret to the Best Ground Beef Chili

The foundation of any great chili lies in its ingredients and preparation. Here’s how to ensure your ground beef chili with corn and jalapeños is a resounding success:

• Choosing the Right Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a fat content of 80/20. This higher fat percentage adds flavor and richness to the chili. Don’t worry about the fat content, as it will be rendered during the cooking process and can be drained off.

• Searing the Beef for Maximum Flavor: Don’t skip the step of browning the ground beef. Searing creates a flavorful crust through the Maillard reaction, significantly enhancing the overall taste of the chili. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, ensuring each piece of beef gets properly browned.

• Building Flavor with Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and bell peppers form the aromatic base of this chili. Sautéing them in the rendered beef fat adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

• Layering the Spices: Adding spices at different stages of cooking unlocks their full potential. Bloom dried spices in the hot oil to release their aromas, and then add fresh herbs towards the end for a bright, vibrant finish.

• The Importance of Time: Chili benefits from a slow simmer. This allows the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to tenderize. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful it becomes.

Assembling the Ingredients: The Perfect Combination

Beyond the ground beef, corn, and jalapeños, a carefully selected blend of ingredients is key to creating a balanced and flavorful chili.

• Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste provide the tomato base for the chili. Diced tomatoes add texture, while tomato sauce and paste contribute to the richness and depth of flavor.

• Beans: Kidney beans and black beans are classic chili additions, adding protein and fiber. Rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot to remove excess starch and sodium.

• Corn: Frozen, canned, or fresh corn can be used in this recipe. If using fresh corn, grill or roast it first to enhance its sweetness.

• Jalapeños: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your preferred level of spiciness. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor, or leave them in for a more intense kick.

• Chili Powder and Spices: A blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and garlic powder creates the signature chili flavor. Adjust the amounts to your personal preference.

• Broth or Stock: Beef broth or stock adds moisture and depth of flavor to the chili. You can also use water, but the broth or stock will result in a richer and more flavorful final product.

• Optional Additions: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, poblano peppers, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. You can also add a touch of cocoa powder or coffee for a deeper, more complex flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Chili

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying ground beef chili with corn and jalapeños:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Bloom the Spices: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and garlic powder to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

4. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, corn, jalapeños, and beef broth to the pot.

5. Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, or more spices to your liking.

7. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions and topping ideas to elevate your ground beef chili with corn and jalapeños:

• Classic Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or plain yogurt, chopped green onions, and avocado slices are classic chili toppings that add flavor and texture.

• Spice It Up: For those who like extra heat, add a drizzle of hot sauce, chopped pickled jalapeños, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

• Cooling Elements: A dollop of guacamole or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can help cool down the heat from the jalapeños.

• Crunchy Additions: Crushed tortilla chips, oyster crackers, or a sprinkle of fried onions add a satisfying crunch to the chili.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve the chili in bowls, over rice or quinoa, or as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

• Make it a Meal: Pair the chili with a side of cornbread, a salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Customizing Your Chili

One of the best things about chili is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create a chili that’s perfect for your taste.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeños and chili powder. You can also add other spicy peppers, like serranos or habaneros, for a more intense kick.

• Add Different Beans: Experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto beans, cannellini beans, or great northern beans.

• Use Different Meats: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, ground chicken, or even shredded beef or pork.

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add more beans and vegetables for a vegetarian chili. You can also use a plant-based ground meat substitute.

• Slow Cooker Option: This chili can easily be made in a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and sauté the aromatics, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

• Freezing and Reheating: Chili freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making ground beef chili with corn and jalapeños:

Q: Can I make this chili spicier?

A: Absolutely! Add more jalapeños (with seeds), a dash of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce.

Q: Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen or canned?

A: Yes, fresh corn is a great option. Grill or roast it first for extra flavor.

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, brown the beef and sauté veggies first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q: How long does chili last in the refrigerator?

A: Properly stored, chili will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze chili?

A: Yes, chili freezes very well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q: What are some good toppings for chili?

A: Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, and tortilla chips are all great options.

Q: Can I make this chili vegetarian?

A: Yes, simply omit the ground beef or substitute with plant-based ground meat.

Q: What kind of beans are best for chili?

A: Kidney beans and black beans are classic choices, but you can experiment with others.

Q: How can I thicken my chili?

A: Simmer uncovered for a longer time, or mash some of the beans.

Q: Is chili healthy?

A: Chili can be a healthy meal, providing protein, fiber, and vitamins.