The Best Chili Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to game-day gatherings. This hearty meal is packed with flavor and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or sharing it at a potluck, this chili recipe guarantees satisfaction in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious chili.
• Flavor Packed – The blend of spices and ingredients creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile – Customize it with various toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Filling – Loaded with protein and beans, this chili will keep you full and satisfied.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – Provides even heat distribution, perfect for simmering chili.
• Slotted spoon – Useful for draining excess fat when cooking meat, keeping your chili from being greasy.
• Cutting board – A stable surface for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Sharp knife – Ensures precise cuts for even cooking of ingredients.

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 turkey bacon (chopped into small pieces)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions (diced)
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

For the Seasoning

• 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 but not rinsed)

For the Broth

• 2 cups broth (beef broth, bone broth, chicken, or 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 turkey bacon to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Once hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook low and slow while stirring occasionally until golden. Remove from heat using a slotted spoon, transferring it to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 2 tablespoons of grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same Dutch oven, add 1 tablespoon of reserved turkey bacon grease over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Brown until fully cooked, then transfer to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add the remaining tablespoon of turkey bacon grease back into the pot over medium heat. Add diced onions; cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Sprinkle in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar; mix well. Stir in tomato paste; cook for another 1-2 minutes before adding 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 back into the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth based on preference for thickness.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or spices. If too thick, add additional broth until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with 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 all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a comforting meal. Here are some delicious ways to serve The Best Chili Recipe to make it even more enjoyable.

Top with Tasty Garnishes

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top creates a gooey texture that complements the chili perfectly.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Tabasco Sauce – For those who enjoy heat, a dash of Tabasco sauce can elevate the spice level.

Serve with Crunchy Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory chili, providing a delightful contrast.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can be used for scooping or as a crunchy topping.
• Rice – Serving chili over rice makes it a hearty meal, soaking up all the flavorful juices.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure you create The Best Chili Recipe every time.

• Bold spices – Adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more chili powder or cumin can intensify flavors.
• Quality meat – Use fresh ground beef or turkey for the best texture and flavor. Higher-fat content yields richer chili.
• Simmer longer – Letting your chili simmer for an extended period allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Bean variety – Mix different types of beans (like black or pinto) for added depth and texture in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread – Sweet and buttery cornbread is an excellent match, perfect for soaking up the chili’s rich sauce.
2. Rice – A bed of fluffy rice serves as a hearty base, balancing out the bold flavors of the chili.
3. Tortilla Chips – Crispy tortilla chips provide a fun way to scoop up chili, adding crunch to every bite.
4. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw pairs well by adding coolness and crunch, contrasting nicely with warm chili.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes topped with chili create a filling dish that’s sure to satisfy.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The gooey cheese and crispy bread offer comfort alongside spicy chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland chili. Make sure to add salt and spices as you cook.

• Overcooking the meat: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until it’s no longer pink, then proceed.

• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering process prevents flavors from developing fully. Allow your chili to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality canned tomatoes or broth can affect taste. Choose high-quality products for the best results.

• Ignoring thickness adjustments: If your chili is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth. Adjusting the consistency is key to achieving the right texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Allow chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place chili in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I spice up The Best Chili Recipe?

You can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more heat. Also, consider adding spices like paprika or smoked paprika for depth of flavor.

What beans can I use besides kidney beans?

You can substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if desired. Just ensure they are drained before adding them to your chili.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the turkey bacon and ground beef and replace them with additional beans or lentils for protein while maintaining flavor.

How long does The Best Chili Recipe last in the fridge?

It lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and avocado slices for added creaminess and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or at a gathering with friends, this chili will surely impress everyone. Try it out today!