How can I thicken chili?

Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid. You can also mash some beans or stir in a spoonful of cornmeal or masa harina at the end.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

What if I don’t like it too spicy?

Reduce or omit the chipotle and jalapeño. Add more bell pepper or a pinch of sugar to mellow the heat.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the meat with lentils, chopped mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of beef.

Hearty Spicy Southwestern Chili

Name: Hearty Spicy Southwestern Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); ; 1 tbsp olive oil; ; 1 yellow onion, diced; ; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; ; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ; 1 tbsp chili powder; ; 2 tsp cumin; ; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ; 1 tsp dried oregano; ; 1 tsp cocoa powder (optional, for richness); ; 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; ; 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped; ; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; ; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 

Description

This hearty, spicy southwestern chili is a bold, comforting one-pot meal bursting with smoky flavor, tender beans, and savory ground beef. Infused with chipotle, cumin, and a touch of cocoa, it’s the perfect dish for cool nights, meal prep, or game-day gatherings. Customize the heat and toppings to make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 yellow onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp chili powder

2 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp cocoa powder (optional, for richness)

1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes

1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 ½ cups beef broth or stock

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Brown the Meat

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set meat aside.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, cook onion and bell pepper until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute more.

Toast the Spices

Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cocoa powder. Stir for 30 seconds to release the flavors.

Add Tomatoes & Chipotle

Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes and chipotle peppers. Let simmer 3–4 minutes.

Combine Beans, Meat & Broth

Return the meat to the pot. Add beans and broth. Stir, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low.

Simmer to Finish

Cover partially and cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips. Pair with cornbread or a crisp salad and a cold drink.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Cool completely and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge and reheat on stove with a splash of broth if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 servings
Calories: 430Kcal
Sodium: 790mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g

Keywords: Hearty Spicy Southwestern Chili