The Best Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and soul, then you’ve come to the right place! This is my go-to recipe for The Best Chili Recipe. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for those chilly evenings or family gatherings. There’s something special about the aroma of chili simmering on the stove; it brings everyone together, ready to dig in and enjoy.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something comforting after a long day, this chili won’t disappoint. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to impress your friends during a game day gathering. So grab your favorite bowl and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this chili in no time.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
• Make ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Customizable toppings: Load it up with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making The Best Chili Recipe is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have some in your pantry!

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

• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Tabasco sauce

Variations

This chili recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Throw in diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat if you like things spicy!
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with black beans and lentils for a hearty plant-based version.

How to Make The Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by adding the chopped bacon to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Let it sizzle until golden! Reducing the heat to medium-low helps render out the fat slowly, creating that perfect crispy texture. Once cooked to your liking, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Don’t forget to reserve some of that delicious bacon grease!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Using one tablespoon of reserved bacon grease adds flavor as you brown the ground beef in the same pot. This step locks in juices and creates a nice crust on the meat. Remember to season with salt and pepper while browning—this is where we start layering those rich flavors!

Step 3: Cook the Onions

In that same pot, add onions along with another tablespoon of bacon grease over medium heat. Cooking them until soft and translucent takes about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle them with salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar. Mixing these spices brings out their robust flavors! Stir in tomato paste for richness before adding canned tomatoes—this mixture will be the base of your chili.

Step 4: Return Beef and Add Beans

Once your onion-tomato mixture reaches a simmer, return both bacon and ground beef back into the pot. Stir in those kidney beans—these not only add fiber but also make this dish heartier! Pour in low-sodium broth until everything is nicely combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully! If it looks too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a bit more broth.

Step 6: Serve

Now comes the fun part—serving! Ladle your steaming hot chili into bowls and let everyone customize their servings with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce if they desire some spice.

Enjoy making The Best Chili Recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Chili Recipe

Making chili is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you can elevate your chili game to the next level!

• Choose quality meat – Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option while still enjoying that rich flavor. Higher-quality meat tends to yield better results in taste and texture.

• Let it simmer – Don’t rush the cooking process! Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more robust and satisfying dish.

• Adjust the spice level – Feel free to tweak the amount of chili powder or add fresh jalapeños if you like it spicy! This personal touch makes your chili truly unique and catered to your taste.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh onions and tomatoes can significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of your chili compared to canned or frozen alternatives.

• Prepare ahead of time – Making chili a day in advance allows the flavors to develop even further. Just reheat before serving, and enjoy an even more delicious meal!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili can be as creative as you want! Think about how to present this comforting dish, making it visually appealing and even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the spices in your chili.
• Chopped green onions – Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Shredded cheese – Melted cheddar cheese on top not only looks appetizing but also enhances flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread pairs perfectly with savory chili, complementing its flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or adding an extra textural element to your meal.
• Rice – Serving your chili over rice makes it hearty and filling. It also helps absorb any extra sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste!
• Salad – A light salad with crisp greens balances the richness of chili and adds freshness. Try mixing in avocado or cherry tomatoes for added flavor.

Enjoy crafting your own perfect bowl of The Best Chili Recipe! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It keeps its flavor well, making it a delightful option for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy thawing, consider freezing in single-serving sizes.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe!

What makes this the best chili recipe?

The secret to making this the best chili recipe lies in its combination of rich flavors from spices and high-quality ingredients. The slow simmering process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe serves as a great base. You can add different beans, vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or even swap out ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives to suit your taste preferences.

How long does The Best Chili Recipe take to cook?

This delicious chili takes about 75 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. It’s well worth the wait for such a satisfying meal!

Can I make The Best Chili Recipe in advance?

Yes! This chili is perfect for making ahead. It stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later use without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making The Best Chili Recipe! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth not just through its delicious aroma but also through shared moments around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your toppings or variations. Happy cooking!