The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe that is sure to warm you up any day of the year. This rich and hearty dish is packed with flavor, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or game-day gatherings. The best chili recipe combines tender meat with a blend of spices and beans, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Satisfying Flavor – Each bite bursts with savory spices and delicious ingredients, leaving you craving more.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings; chili fits any occasion!
• Easy to Make – Follow simple steps to whip up this comforting dish, even on busy nights.
• Customizable Toppings – Personalize your bowl with cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Freezer-Friendly – Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals on future busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best chili recipe, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven – Ideal for even cooking and simmering large batches of chili without splatter.
• Slotted spoon – Perfect for transferring cooked ingredients without excess liquid, ensuring your chili is not too watery.

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

For Seasoning

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

For the Sauce

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

For the Beans

• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained (not rinsed)

For Broth

• 2 cups broth, (beef broth, bone broth, chicken broth, or vegetable broth) 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 golden brown, remove the lid and allow cooking until desired doneness. Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. 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 into your Dutch oven. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper while browning. Once browned, transfer beef to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

In the same pot, add remaining tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease over medium heat. Add diced onions; cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Sprinkle salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar over onions; mix well to combine. Stir in tomato paste; cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat 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 into the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef, bone chicken or vegetable broth). Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for 15-20 minutes before serving. Taste test and add additional salt or pepper if needed; add more broth if your chili is too thick.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious chili hot with all your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is an art that enhances the overall experience. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy The Best Chili Recipe.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle a generous amount on top for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy contrast to the spiciness of the chili.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crisp bite and vibrant color.
• Tabasco Sauce – For those who love heat, a few dashes of Tabasco sauce can elevate the flavor profile.

Accompanying Bread

• Cornbread – Sweet and buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up all the delicious juices.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy element that complements the softness of the chili.

Salad Pairings

• Simple Garden Salad – A light garden salad with fresh vegetables balances the richness of the chili.
• Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast with its crunch and tanginess.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

To ensure your chili is nothing short of amazing, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Meat – Selecting high-quality ground beef or turkey will enhance the flavor and texture of your chili.
• Layer Flavors – Sautéing onions and spices before adding liquids helps develop deeper flavors in your chili.
• Simmer Slowly – Allow your chili to simmer for longer periods; this melds the ingredients beautifully and enriches the taste.
• Adjust Consistency – If your chili is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing sides with your chili creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic side dish options.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is easy to make and perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
2. Rice – White or brown rice absorbs flavors well and adds heartiness alongside your chili.
3. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying on their own.
4. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a filling twist.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrients to your plate, balancing out the meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Filled with cheese, rice, or beans, these peppers make a creative side that pairs wonderfully with chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be a fun and rewarding experience, but some common mistakes can hinder the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Neglecting to season properly – Many people forget to season throughout the cooking process. Taste your chili at different stages and adjust seasoning as you go.

• Using low-quality ingredients – Poor quality meat or canned products can lead to lackluster flavor. Invest in fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

• Overcooking or undercooking the meat – Browning the meat properly enhances flavor. Ensure that your ground beef is well browned before adding other ingredients for depth of taste.

• Skipping the simmering step – Simmering allows flavors to meld together. Don’t rush this part; let your chili simmer for at least 15-20 minutes for optimal taste.

• Ignoring desired thickness – Some prefer a thicker chili, while others like it soupier. Adjust the broth amount based on your preference and add more as needed during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chili can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The Best Chili Recipe can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes until warm.

• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.

• Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add broth if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Chili Recipe that might help you perfect your dish.

What makes The Best Chili Recipe special?

The Best Chili Recipe is loaded with rich flavors from spices combined with tender meat and beans, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I make The Best Chili Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of meat broth to keep it deliciously hearty.

How do I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Feel free to add different beans, vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or adjust spice levels by adding jalapeños or hot sauce according to your taste preferences.

How long does The Best Chili Recipe last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3-4 days. If frozen properly, it can be stored for up to 3 months without losing its flavor.

What toppings go well with The Best Chili Recipe?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, and fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions which enhance the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this chili will surely impress everyone at your table. Give it a try today!