The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy it year-round topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This hearty dish is perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. With a mix of spices and tender meat, you’ll find that this chili is rich in flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful and Hearty – Packed with spices and savory meats, this chili delivers a rich taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Customizable – You can easily adjust the spice level or add different beans to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
• Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or game night, this chili will be a hit!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – Perfect for even heat distribution while simmering your chili.
• Slotted spoon – Great for transferring cooked ingredients without excess grease.
• Chopping board & Knife – Essential for preparing your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped into small pieces)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions (diced)

Spices & Seasonings

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

Tomato Components

• 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce

Beans & Broth

• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained)
• 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 the Turkey Bacon is hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally. Once the Turkey Bacon pieces are golden, remove the lid and allow them to cook until they reach your 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 browned 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 diced 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 an additional 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Return Beef & Add Beans

Once your onion-tomato mixture reaches a simmer, return both the 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 well until combined.

Step 5: Simmer Your Chili

Allow your chili to simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Taste it before serving; adjust with additional salt or spices as needed. If your chili is too thick, feel free to add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

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

This recipe serves about 8 people—perfect for sharing! Enjoy every bite of The Best Chili Recipe!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a complete meal. Here are some delicious topping and pairing ideas to elevate The Best Chili Recipe experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top brings a savory richness that complements the chili perfectly.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor.

Crunchy Additions

• Tortilla Chips – Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or as a side, adding texture to each bite.
• Cornbread – A slice of warm cornbread pairs wonderfully, soaking up the sauce and adding sweetness.

Spicy Kick

• Tabasco Sauce – For those who love heat, a few dashes can take your chili to the next level.
• Pickled Jalapeños – These add both heat and tang, providing an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili can make all the difference in taste. Here are some handy tips to ensure your chili turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices will enhance flavor significantly compared to old, stale ones.
• Adjust Consistency – If your chili is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, let it simmer longer without a lid.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the chili to sit for at least 30 minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans – Try mixing different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety in texture and taste.
• Use High-Quality Meat – Quality ground beef or turkey will provide better flavor and moisture in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement The Best Chili Recipe beautifully.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly, this classic side is perfect for dipping into your chili.
2. Rice – Steamed white or brown rice can help absorb the sauce while providing heartiness to the meal.
3. Salad – A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to spicy chili.
4. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw offers crunch and coolness that balances well with the heat of the chili.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a comforting twist on traditional servings.
6. Vegetable Platter – Fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with hummus provide crunch and healthy snacking options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Chili Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Using low-quality meat – Always choose fresh and high-quality ground beef or turkey for the best flavor. Low-quality meat can result in a less enjoyable chili.
• Neglecting seasoning – Don’t skip salt or spices! Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Overcooking or undercooking beans – Ensure your kidney beans are cooked well but not mushy. If using canned beans, add them towards the end of cooking.
• Rushing the simmering process – Simmering allows flavors to meld together. Be patient and let your chili cook low and slow for at least 15-20 minutes.
• Not adjusting thickness – If your chili is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken.
• Forgetting about toppings – Toppings like sour cream, cheese, and green onions enhance the overall experience. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave – Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Chili Recipe.

What makes The Best Chili Recipe unique?

This recipe stands out due to its balance of spices and quality ingredients, ensuring a rich flavor profile that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor. Adjust spices based on your preference as well.

How do I spice up my chili?

To spice things up, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Experiment with different types of chili powder for varied heat levels.

What can I serve with The Best Chili Recipe?

Serve the chili with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this recipe can easily be tailored to suit your tastes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and toppings to make it uniquely yours!