There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chili to chase away the chill on a brisk evening. Pinto bean chili with ground beef is my go-to comfort dish. It’s a perfect blend of flavors, bringing out the earthy taste of pinto beans alongside the richness of ground beef. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and ability to satisfy a crowd. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just looking to whip up a filling family dinner, this chili delivers on all fronts.

Why you’ll love this dish

You’ll find plenty of reasons to make pinto bean chili with ground beef a staple in your kitchen. First off, it’s incredibly budget-friendly! Using just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand, this dish can be made for less than the price of takeout. Moreover, it’s quick to prepare; within an hour, you can have a delicious, aromatic pot on the table.

What’s more, this pinto bean chili is kid-approved and perfect for meal prep—pack it for lunches or simply reheat the leftovers for a second round of enjoyment. It’s great for any occasion, be it a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty Super Bowl gathering.

"This chili is the best! It’s full of flavor and is a hit with my kids. I love how easy it is to make—it’s a regular in our weeknight rotation!" – A happy home cook

Step-by-step overview

Now, let’s walk through how this comforting, flavorful chili comes together. The process is straightforward and rewarding—you’re just a few steps away from a bubbling pot of deliciousness. You’ll start by browning the beef, then layer in the aromatic onion and garlic, followed by spices that bring it all to life. Finally, combine everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you’re ready to serve.

What you’ll need

To make this mouthwatering pinto bean chili with ground beef, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Optional: pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version—just add more beans or lentils!