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+ servings

Firehouse Chili

Firehouse Chili is a bold, hearty, and spicy chili recipe inspired by the kind often cooked in fire stations—packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and layers of smoky heat. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, game day, or cold-weather comfort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 2 15 oz cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, jalapeños

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
  • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
  • Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and broth. Stir to combine.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1peopleCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 680mgFiber: 8gSugar: 8g
Keyword Chili, Comfort Food, Firehouse Chili, Spicy
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