The Best Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then I have just the thing for you! This is my go-to recipe for The Best Chili Recipe, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and delicious, or for those family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy a comforting bowl. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, and trust me, this chili will quickly become a favorite in your home!

What makes this chili recipe truly special is its balance of spices and the rich, meaty goodness that makes it satisfying without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, which means more time enjoying the company of loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying your chili in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good chili! It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a chilly evening at home, this chili fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious chili, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; most of these are staples you might already have 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

One of the best things about chili is how flexible it can be. Here are some fun variations to try!

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch!
• Go beanless: For a low-carb version, skip the beans altogether and add extra meat or vegetables.

How to Make The Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by adding your chopped bacon to a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cooking bacon creates that wonderful base flavor that every great chili needs. Once it’s sizzling nicely, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Let it cook low and slow until golden brown—this process brings out all those delicious flavors. When done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels and save about 2 tablespoons of that tasty grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease back in. Next up is browning your ground beef! This step adds depth to your chili’s flavor profile. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks until browned all over. Once it’s done, transfer it to a clean plate while we move on to our next ingredient.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Now it’s time for those onions! Add them into your pot along with any leftover bacon grease over medium heat. Sauté these beauties for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and translucent—this process brings out their natural sweetness. Sprinkle in some salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar; mix well! Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for another couple of minutes before adding diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Once combined, bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Return the Beef and Add Some Beans

As soon as your onion-tomato mixture begins simmering beautifully, return both your bacon pieces and browned ground beef back into the pot. Stir in those kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth—this not only helps create that perfect consistency but also keeps everything moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Simmer

This is where all those flavors meld together! Allow your chili to simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Keep an eye on it; if it’s too thick for your liking, simply add more broth until you reach that desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Finally! It’s time to dig in! Serve your gorgeous bowl of chili hot with all your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or even Tabasco sauce if you’re feeling spicy!

Enjoy every comforting bite of what I promise will be The Best Chili Recipe you’ve ever made!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Chili Recipe

Chili is a beloved dish that gets better with a few insider tips to enhance its flavor and texture!

• Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a significant difference in the taste of your chili. Opt for grass-fed ground beef and organic tomatoes when possible.

• Let it simmer longer: The longer you allow your chili to simmer, the more the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can let it go for an hour or two, you’ll be rewarded with a richer taste.

• Adjust the spice level: If you’re unsure about the heat, start with less chili powder and gradually add more to suit your palate. You can always spice it up later, but it’s tough to tone down the heat once it’s in!

• Experiment with beans: While red kidney beans are classic, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for added depth and texture. Each type brings its unique flavor profile to the dish.

• Make it ahead of time: Chili tastes even better after resting! Prepare it the day before serving so the flavors can develop overnight. Just reheat it gently before serving.

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is all about creating a warm and inviting experience for your guests or family. Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the spices beautifully.
• Shredded cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for that gooey goodness that melts into your chili.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions not only add color but also a light crunch that contrasts perfectly with the rich chili.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, perfect for soaking up every last drop.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a fun way to enjoy chili by scooping it up directly!
• Rice: Serve your chili over white or brown rice for a hearty meal that adds extra texture.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chili, making it a well-rounded meal.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at hand, it’s time to gather your ingredients and make The Best Chili Recipe! Enjoy every spoonful of this warming delight—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and flavors deepen after a day, making it even tastier for leftovers. Here’s how to keep your chili fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Label your container with the date so you’ll remember when you made it.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.
• Consider portioning it out into smaller servings for easy thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little broth if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious chili recipe:

What makes The Best Chili Recipe?

The Best Chili Recipe combines rich flavors from beef, spices, and tomatoes with hearty beans. This balance creates a comforting dish that’s great for any gathering or cozy night in.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to modify spices, add different beans, or include vegetables like bell peppers or corn. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste!

How do I thicken The Best Chili Recipe?

If your chili is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a while longer to reduce and thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during simmering until desired thickness is reached.

Is The Best Chili Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially broth and canned items, are labeled gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this chili recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings warmth and comfort. Enjoy it with friends and family or savor it all by yourself—either way, you’re in for a treat! Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own; I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!