Description
This hearty sweet potato chili combines savory ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, beans, and warming spices, all topped with melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a filling and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Oils
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables and Legumes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
Liquids and Broth
- 2 cups beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Toppings and Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onion: Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Brown ground beef: Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking and no large clumps remain.
- Add sweet potatoes and spices: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, mixing well to coat the ingredients evenly in the spices.
- Add tomatoes, beans, and broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, and beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Season to taste: Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference, stirring well to distribute the seasoning.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, topping each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm for maximum comfort.
Notes
- For an extra spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.
- You can substitute black beans for kidney beans if preferred or for a different texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day after flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
