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Small Batch Beef & Bean Chili for Two Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 47 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Small Batch Beef & Bean Chili recipe is perfect for a cozy meal for two. Packed with robust flavors of chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin, combined with ground beef, black beans, and a hint of dark chocolate for depth, it’s a comforting and hearty dish that simmers to perfection on the stovetop in just under an hour.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Chili Seasoning

  • 2 1/2 tsp. Chili Powder
  • 1 tsp. Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp. Ground Cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt (Diamond Crystal recommended)
  • 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp. Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper (optional)

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tsp. Olive Oil
  • 1 cup chopped Yellow Onion
  • 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt
  • 8 oz. Ground Beef (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 2 tbsp. Homemade Chili Seasoning (from above or storebought)
  • 1 tbsp. Tomato Paste
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 15 oz. Crushed Tomatoes
  • 15 oz. Black Beans, drained (do not rinse)
  • 1 cup Beef Broth
  • 1 tbsp. Light Brown Sugar
  • 10 Dark Chocolate Chips
  • Freshly cracked Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the Chili Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well and set aside.
  2. Cook the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or medium pot over medium heat. Add chopped yellow onion and kosher salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened and translucent.
  3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the pot. Break it into small pieces as it cooks and brown it for about 3 minutes. Add the homemade chili seasoning and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until beef is fully cooked and fragrant.
  4. Stir in Tomato Paste and Garlic: Clear a small section at the bottom of the pot and add tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the paste darkens slightly, then stir in minced garlic, mixing well into the tomato paste and beef mixture.
  5. Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in crushed tomatoes, black beans, beef broth, light brown sugar, and dark chocolate chips. Mix well and bring the chili to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and season with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
  6. Serve: Divide the chili between two bowls, add your preferred toppings, and enjoy this rich, hearty chili perfect for two.

Notes

  • The dark chocolate chips add a subtle richness and depth to the chili; feel free to omit if you prefer.
  • Use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • For spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños when cooking onions.
  • Leftover chili keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day.
  • You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste, but the flavor will be less rich.

Find it online: https://yumrecipesfood.com/small-batch-beef-and-bean-chili-for-two-recipe/