Best Beef Chili Recipe for Cozy Nights

Ingredients

• pounds ground beef, 80/20 for a good fat balance
• large yellow onion, finely diced for sweetness
• garlic, minced for that punchy flavor
• tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing
• cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• can crushed tomatoes, for a rich base
• tablespoons chili powder, adjust to your heat preference
• teaspoon ground cumin, for earthy depth
• teaspoon smoked paprika, for a subtle smokiness
• teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground if possible
• beef broth, to loosen the mix
• tablespoon brown sugar, to balance the acidity