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Miranda Lambert’s Famous Chili – The Kind You Make When You Need Something Cozy and Real

Miranda Lambert’s Famous Chili – The Kind You Make When You Need Something Cozy and Real

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Miranda Lambert’s Famous Chili is a bold, cozy, and comforting bowl of goodness loaded with seasoned ground beef, two kinds of beans, smoky spices, and just enough kick to keep things interesting. Perfect for tailgates, potlucks, or lazy Sunday dinners, this chili is big on flavor and simple to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • pounds ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, green onions, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
  2. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
  4. Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), pinto beans, and kidney beans. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more spice if desired.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Fire-roasted tomatoes add great depth of flavor.
  • Bacon drippings instead of oil bring extra richness.
  • For a healthier version, use half ground turkey.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.

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