The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow guide that’s perfect for cozy dinners or game day gatherings. This hearty dish brings together robust flavors and satisfying textures, making it a favorite for any occasion. Topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh green onions, you’re in for a treat with The Best Chili Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting chili without any fuss.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich and savory flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a topping for nachos and baked potatoes; it fits all meal occasions.
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize your chili with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or spicy sauce.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores well, making it ideal for preparing in advance and enjoying later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering chili evenly. Its heavy base prevents burning.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for transferring cooked ingredients without excess grease or liquid.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate spice measurements to achieve the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

To make The Best Chili Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Meat and Beans

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped into small pieces)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained (not rinsed))

Vegetables and Spices

• 2 medium onions (diced)
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Sauces and Liquids

• 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups broth (beef broth, bone broth, chicken, vegetable) plus more as needed

Optional Toppings

• sour cream
• shredded cheddar cheese
• chopped green onions
• Tabasco sauce

How to Make The Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Add the chopped Turkey Bacon to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Once sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally. When golden, remove the lid and allow to cook until desired doneness. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside. Reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover Turkey Bacon grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease back to your Dutch oven. Add the ground beef and brown it while seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer the beef to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add the remaining tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease to your pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Sprinkle in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar; mix well. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat while stirring continuously. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Return the Beef and Add Beans

Once your onion-tomato mixture reaches a simmer, return the Turkey Bacon and ground beef to the pot. Stir in kidney beans with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef, bone chicken, or vegetable). Mix everything well.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for 15-20 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or spices. If too thick, add additional broth.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with all your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce if desired.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of The Best Chili Recipe, perfect for sharing with family or friends!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is an art, and there are countless ways to enjoy this hearty dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these suggestions will elevate your chili experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the spicy flavors.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top not only enhances flavor but also gives a rich texture.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy bite that contrasts beautifully with the warm chili.

Accompanying Cornbread

• Homemade Cornbread – Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is the perfect accompaniment for scooping up chili.
• Corn Muffins – Mini corn muffins are easy to serve and packed with flavor, making them a fun side option.

Creative Pairings

• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can add a delightful texture when dipped into your chili.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices bring freshness and richness that complements the spices.
• Hot Sauce – For those who love heat, offering different hot sauces allows guests to customize their bowls.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Creating the best chili recipe is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect bowl of chili.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality meats make a significant difference in flavor.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing your chili to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
• Taste as You Go – Adjust seasoning throughout cooking. This ensures your chili has the right amount of salt and spices.
• Experiment with Spices – Don’t be afraid to try different spices like paprika or cayenne to find your ideal flavor profile.
• Store Leftovers Properly – Chili often tastes better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Complementing your chili with side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with chili, providing a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds a cool element that balances the warmth of the chili.
3. Rice or Quinoa – Serving chili over rice or quinoa makes it more filling and provides additional texture.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The gooeyness of grilled cheese sandwiches makes them perfect for dipping into hearty chili.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes topped with chili create a comforting meal that’s both filling and delicious.
6. Salad – A simple green salad offers freshness and crunch, making it an ideal complement to rich chili flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step – Not browning your meat can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always brown your ground beef and any other meats before adding them to the pot to enhance the taste.

• Using canned tomatoes without draining – Canned tomatoes can add excess liquid, making your chili too watery. Drain them before adding to maintain the right consistency.

• Not adjusting seasoning – Chili can be bland if you don’t taste and adjust the seasoning as it cooks. Always taste your chili before serving and add more salt, spices, or herbs if needed.

• Cooking on high heat – Cooking chili too quickly can result in tough meat and uneven flavors. Always let your chili simmer on low heat for an extended time for the best results.

• Ignoring bean quality – Using low-quality canned beans can affect the texture and flavor of your chili. Opt for high-quality, low-sodium canned beans for better results.

• Overlooking toppings – Toppings can elevate your chili experience. Don’t forget to include sour cream, cheese, or green onions for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing for storage.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The best way to freeze is in individual portions for easy reheating.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish; heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through; add broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chili lovers often have questions about this flavorful dish. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding The Best Chili Recipe:

How can I make The Best Chili Recipe spicier?

You can make it spicier by adding fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking. Adjust according to your preferred heat level.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that keeps the dish lean while still providing rich flavors when seasoned well.

How do I thicken The Best Chili Recipe?

If you want a thicker chili, allow it to simmer longer without a lid or add ingredients like cornmeal or masa harina mixed with water.

What sides go well with The Best Chili Recipe?

Cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips are perfect sides that complement the flavors of chili wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is a hearty dish that’s ideal for any occasion. Its rich flavors make it comforting and satisfying, while customization options allow you to cater it to every palate. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, topped with cheese or served plain, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Chili Recipe

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of The Best Chili Recipe, a hearty dish perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This flavorful chili brings together tender ground beef, kidney beans, and a medley of spices that create a rich, satisfying bowl. Topped with melted cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh green onions, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this chili is not just a meal but an experience to savor. Whether served alongside cornbread or enjoyed on its own, it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans
• 2 medium onions
• 3–4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups broth (beef or chicken)
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar

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Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onions, cooking until soft. Stir in spices and tomato paste for about 2 minutes.
3. Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes to enhance flavors. Adjust seasoning as desired.
5. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg