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High Protein Chili

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A nourishing and flavorful chili packed with protein from lean meats and beans, perfect for muscle recovery or a hearty family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93/7)
  • 2 cans black beans (15-ounce, rinsed and drained)
  • 2 cans kidney beans (15-ounce, rinsed and drained)
  • 1 can pinto beans (15-ounce, rinsed and drained)
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes (28-ounce, undrained)
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 2 medium onions (chopped)
  • 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green, chopped)
  • 2 jalapeño peppers (seeded and minced, optional)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until well browned, about 8-10 minutes, then drain the excess grease.
  3. Stir in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and jalapeño peppers, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if using). Stir to coat the meat and vegetables and bloom the spices for about a minute.
  7. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits.
  8. Mix in the undrained diced tomatoes and all the beans. Bring to a simmer.
  9. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. For more depth of flavor, let it simmer for 2-3 hours.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, adding more chili powder or cayenne as desired. If the chili is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered to reduce the liquid.
  11. Serve in bowls and consider adding toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, or cilantro.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with lentils or chickpeas. This chili freezes well for up to 4-6 months.