Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep. This chili is packed with flavor and hearty ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser all year round. Top it off with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh green onions for a delightful finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: Each spoonful bursts with rich and spicy flavors from the blend of spices and tomatoes.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings or serve it over rice for a filling meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and beans, this chili will keep you full and satisfied.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make cooking smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking; evenly distributes heat for perfect simmering.
- Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess grease while transferring cooked ingredients without losing flavor.
Ingredients
Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy to follow recipe and enjoy year-round topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
For the Base
- 1 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped into small pieces)
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 medium onions (diced)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Sauces and Tomatoes
- 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
Beans
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained but not rinsed)
Broth
- 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 hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and cook low and slow, stirring occasionally. When golden brown, remove the lid and allow it to reach your desired doneness. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover Turkey Bacon grease.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Brown until fully cooked. Transfer beef to a clean plate.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
Add remaining Turkey Bacon grease back into the pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Sprinkle in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar. Mix well before stirring in tomato paste; cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring everything to a simmer.
Step 4: Return Beef & Add Beans
Once your onion-tomato mixture simmers, return both Turkey Bacon and ground beef to the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef, bone, chicken or vegetable). Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Simmer
Let your chili simmer for 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or spices if desired. If your chili becomes too thick during cooking, add additional broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your delicious chili hot! Top it off with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce as desired. Enjoy every hearty bite!
How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe
Serving chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a comforting meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your bowl of the best chili recipe.
Top with Toppings
- Sour Cream – Adds a cool, creamy texture that balances the spice.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully on top, bringing a rich flavor.
- Chopped Green Onions – Provides a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Jalapeños – For those who love extra heat, sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick.
Pair with Bread
- Cornbread – A classic pairing that adds a sweet contrast to the savory chili.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the chili while adding robust flavor.
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips make a fun and interactive side.
Serve with Rice
- White Rice – A neutral base that absorbs the chili’s flavors well.
- Brown Rice – Offers a nuttier taste and adds fiber for a healthier option.
How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe
Perfecting your chili can take it from good to great. Consider these helpful tips for an even more delicious dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust Spices Gradually – Start with less spice, then adjust to taste as it cooks.
- Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing your chili to simmer enhances its depth of flavor over time.
- Experiment with Beans – Try different beans like black beans or pinto for variety in texture and taste.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe
Complement your bowl of the best chili recipe with these delightful side dishes that balance flavors and textures.
- Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly, perfect for soaking up chili juices.
- Garden Salad – Fresh greens provide a crisp contrast to hearty chili.
- Coleslaw – Creamy and crunchy, coleslaw adds brightness to each bite.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy potatoes can be topped with chili for a filling meal.
- Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies offer a healthy complement.
- Rice Pilaf – Flavored rice can absorb the rich sauce of the chili effectively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chili can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Sauté – Neglecting to sauté your onions and spices can lead to a bland chili. Take time to cook them until soft and fragrant for maximum flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Meat – Poor-quality ground beef can result in an unappetizing texture. Choose fresh, high-quality meat for the best results in your chili.
- Overcooking Beans – If you overcook canned beans, they will become mushy. Add them later in the cooking process and simmer just long enough to heat through.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments – Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your chili lacking. Always taste as you go and modify with salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Not Letting It Rest – Serving chili immediately can miss out on flavor depth. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store The Best Chili Recipe in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best Chili Recipe
- Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating The Best Chili Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making The Best Chili Recipe:
Can I make The Best Chili Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with additional beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
What toppings go well with The Best Chili Recipe?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and jalapeños.
How spicy is The Best Chili Recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by using mild or hot chili powder based on your preference.
How long does it take to make The Best Chili Recipe?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 60 minutes of cooking time.
Can I use different types of beans in this chili recipe?
Yes! Feel free to use black beans, pinto beans, or any other variety you enjoy.
Final Thoughts
The Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With endless customization options—from spice levels to toppings—this dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try!
The Best Chili Recipe
This Best Chili Recipe is your go-to comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or lively game day gatherings. Bursting with rich flavors from seasoned beef and hearty beans, this chili warms the soul with every delightful spoonful. It’s easy to prepare and offers endless customization options, from spicy toppings to serving it over rice or cornbread. Whether you enjoy it solo or share it with friends, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—make a large batch and savor the leftovers throughout the week!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 medium onions (diced)
- 3–4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained)
- 2 cups broth (beef or chicken)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same pot, sauté diced onions until soft. Add spices and tomato paste; cook briefly.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Return browned beef and add kidney beans along with broth. Mix well.
- Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, adjusting thickness by adding more broth if needed.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as sour cream or shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 284
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 528mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian version, replace meat with additional beans or lentils. Customize spice levels by adjusting chili powder amounts.
