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A close-up bowl of thick, meaty Homemade Lone Star Chili topped with shredded white cheese and chopped green onions.

Homemade Lone Star Chili

A bold and hearty Texas-style chili made with perfectly seasoned ground beef, slow-simmered tomatoes, and warm spices for deep, comforting flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Texan
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion large, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 lb ground beef
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp masa harina or corn flour
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Heavy Pot
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion for 4–5 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until evenly browned.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.
  6. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine.
  7. Add apple cider vinegar, sugar, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Stir in masa harina during the last 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
  10. Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Serve with cornbread or over rice if desired.