Go Back
Bob Evans Chili Recipe

Bob Evans Chili Recipe

A hearty Bob Evans Chili Recipe copycat made with ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato base. This comforting bowl captures the flavor of the Bob Evans original chili recipe in a simple homemade version.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground beef 80/20 works well
  • 1 small Onion Finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1 can 15 oz Kidney beans Drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz Diced tomatoes With juices
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Adds body
  • 1 tbsp Chili powder Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin Adds warmth
  • ½ tsp Paprika Mild smokiness
  • ½ tsp Salt Or to taste
  • ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground
  • 1 cup Beef broth For simmering

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • A heavy pot works best because it distributes heat evenly.

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Beef
  1. I heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef.
  2. As it cooks, I break it apart with a wooden spoon.
  3. The sizzling sound and aroma of browning beef always signal the start of something good.
  4. Once the meat is browned, I drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
  1. Next I stir in the chopped onion and garlic.
  2. They cook with the beef for about 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes slightly translucent.
  3. The kitchen starts smelling amazing at this point.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans
  1. Now I add:
  2. diced tomatoes
  3. kidney beans
  4. tomato sauce
  5. The mixture immediately looks like a proper chili base.
Step 4: Season the Chili
  1. Then I sprinkle in:
  2. chili powder
  3. cumin
  4. paprika
  5. salt and pepper
  6. I stir everything well so the spices coat the meat evenly.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth
  1. Finally, I add the beef broth.
  2. This loosens the mixture and helps the flavors blend during simmering.
Step 6: Let It Simmer
  1. I bring the pot to a gentle simmer and cook it for 25 minutes.
  2. During this time the chili thickens slightly and the flavors deepen.
  3. Sometimes I give it a stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Notes

Brown the beef well

That caramelization builds deeper flavor.

Simmer long enough

Even 20 minutes of simmering makes a noticeable difference.

Taste before serving

Adjust salt or chili powder depending on preference.