There’s something undeniably magical about gathering around a campfire with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter under the starlit sky. One dish that perfectly encapsulates this warmth and camaraderie is our Campfire Chili Recipe. This hearty and flavorful chili brings together ground beef, beans, and vegetables in a rich, savory broth, perfectly balanced with spices. Whether you’re on a family camping trip or simply looking to recreate that cozy, outdoorsy vibe at home, this chili will become a treasured part of your culinary repertoire.

Prep Time | 20 minutes |
Cook Time | 1 hour |
Total Time | 1 hour 20 minutes |
Servings | 6 |
Skill Level | Easy |
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any large chunks with a wooden spoon.
- Add the diced bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Ladle the chili into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and increase the quantity of beans and vegetables.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
- You can prepare this chili ahead of time and reheat it, as the flavors often become even better the next day.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little water or beef broth to achieve the desired consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions
- If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Canned pinto beans can be used in place of black beans.
- Crushed tomatoes can be substituted for diced tomatoes for a smoother consistency.
Pairings
Our Campfire Chili is perfectly complemented by a side of warm, crusty bread or a bowl of fluffy rice. For drinks, consider a robust iced tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance the rich flavors of the chili. For dessert, a slice of homemade apple pie would cap off the meal splendidly. At Zynahz, we believe that cooking is not just about feeding the body but nourishing the soul and bringing together those we love. We hope our Campfire Chili Recipe adds a touch of warmth and togetherness to your family gatherings. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your results with us, and inspire others by sharing with your friends and family. Dive deeper into the culinary journey with Zynahz by exploring more recipes on our blog, following us on social media, and subscribing to our newsletter. Happy cooking!