Craving that rich, hearty chili you get at Culver's? You don't need to drive to your nearest location! This copycat Culver's chili recipe delivers that same satisfying flavor right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even a potluck sensation. This homemade cooking adventure brings the deliciousness of a restaurant favorite into the comfort of your own home. Get ready for a bowl of warm, flavorful goodness!
Ingredients: A Blend of Flavor
This recipe provides a generous serving, perfect for sharing (or enjoying all to yourself!).
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
This recipe is designed for easy homemade cooking. Even beginner cooks will find it simple to follow!
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld. This is where the magic of slow cooking happens, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or tortilla chips. This hearty and healthy meal is perfect for a quick dinner, a family gathering, or a satisfying lunch.
Cooking Tips for Chili Perfection
- For a thicker chili: Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot while it simmers.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. A dash of hot sauce can also add a kick!
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for several meals. This is a perfect recipe for meal prepping for busy weeknights.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as corn, carrots, or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This delicious chili recipe provides a satisfying and flavorful meal, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the ease of this quick dinner idea and the satisfaction of homemade cooking! It's one of the best recipes for a comforting and healthy meal. Share your culinary creations and tag us in your photos!