The Best Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms the soul, then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for The Best Chili Recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also super easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili is perfect for any occasion. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas and creating memories around the dinner table.

What makes this chili special? Well, it’s all about the balance of bold spices, hearty ingredients, and that wonderful slow-cooked flavor. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making something truly delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chili! It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
• Customizable: Add your favorite beans or vegetables to make this recipe your own.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Nothing beats a warm bowl of chili on a chilly evening!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create The Best Chili Recipe, you don’t need anything fancy—just wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili

• 1 pound bacon, chopped into small pieces
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 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
• 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained (not rinsed)
• 2 cups broth, (beef broth, bone broth, chicken, vegetable) plus more as needed

Optional Toppings

You can elevate your chili experience with some tasty toppings:
* Sour cream
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Chopped green onions
* Tabasco sauce

Variations

One of the best things about chili is how flexible it can be! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal taste.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option!
• Add more beans: Mix in black beans or pinto beans for added texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, toss in some jalapeños or chili flakes for an extra kick.
• Go vegetarian: Leave out the meat entirely and load up on veggies like bell peppers and zucchini instead.

How to Make The Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by adding the chopped bacon to a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This step is essential as it renders out flavorful fat which will enhance the overall taste of your chili. Once sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow until golden brown. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Remember to reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease for later use!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease back into the pot over medium-high heat. This adds even more flavor! Brown the ground beef while seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper. Once browned, transfer it to a clean plate so we can move on to our veggies.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

In the same pot, add your remaining tablespoon of bacon grease over medium heat and toss in those diced onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Sprinkle in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar before stirring in tomato paste for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Return the Beef and Add Some Beans

Once your onion mixture is simmering nicely, return both the cooked bacon and browned beef back into the pot. Now it’s time for those kidney beans! Stir them in along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (choose from beef, bone, chicken or vegetable). This will help combine all those rich flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer

Let your chili simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows all those incredible flavors to meld together perfectly! If you find your chili too thick during this time, feel free to add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Now comes my favorite part—serving! Ladle generous portions into bowls topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or even some Tabasco sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!

And there you have it—the best chili recipe you’ll ever make! Enjoy this comforting dish year-round with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Chili Recipe

Making the best chili is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chili turns out perfect every time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and spices can elevate your dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Fresh onions and garlic bring a sweetness that dried versions simply can’t compete with.

• Let it simmer longer – Allowing your chili to simmer for a longer period deepens the flavors. If time permits, let it cook for an hour or more; this helps meld all the ingredients together beautifully.

• Adjust spice levels gradually – Start with the recommended amount of spices, and taste as you go. This way, you can fine-tune the heat level to suit your preference without overpowering the dish.

• Incorporate different beans – While red kidney beans are traditional, trying black beans or pinto beans can add variety in both texture and flavor, making your chili unique and interesting.

• Chill before serving – If you have time, allow your chili to cool and then refrigerate it overnight. This resting period lets the flavors develop even more, making it taste even better when reheated.

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili can be just as enjoyable as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy contrast that balances the spices in your chili.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melting cheese on top not only adds richness but also enhances the overall presentation.
• Chopped green onions – These provide a fresh crunch that brightens up each bowl of chili, adding both color and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread – This warm, slightly sweet bread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of chili. It’s great for soaking up every last drop!
• Rice – Serving chili over a bed of rice can help stretch the dish further while providing extra texture. You can use white rice or even brown rice for added nutrition.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips offer a satisfying contrast to the smooth texture of chili. They’re perfect for dipping or topping!
• Salad – A simple green salad with light vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of rich chili, balancing out the meal beautifully.

Enjoy exploring these serving suggestions along with your best chili recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy hearty, delicious meals throughout the week. With just a few simple steps, you can store your leftovers or even freeze portions for later. Here’s how:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’re storing in smaller portions, consider using individual containers for easy reheating.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing.
• Label each container with the date and type of dish for easy identification. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

What makes The Best Chili Recipe unique?

The Best Chili Recipe stands out due to its rich blend of spices and flavorful ingredients like bacon and ground beef. This combination creates a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make The Best Chili Recipe without meat?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe by replacing the ground beef with plant-based alternatives such as lentils, black beans, or textured vegetable protein. You’ll still get a deliciously satisfying chili!

How do I adjust The Best Chili Recipe for spiciness?

To adjust the heat level in The Best Chili Recipe, you can add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños. For a milder version, consider reducing the amount of chili powder or omitting any additional spicy elements.

Can I use different beans in The Best Chili Recipe?

Yes! While red kidney beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other varieties like black beans or pinto beans. Each type brings its own flavor and texture!

How long does The Best Chili Recipe take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 75 minutes, which includes both preparation and simmering time. This makes it a relatively quick option for a filling dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making The Best Chili Recipe! It’s not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about gathering around a warm pot of comfort that brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or prepping it for lunch throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t forget to share your experience!