The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe that is perfect for cozy nights and gatherings with friends. This hearty dish combines rich flavors and tender ingredients, making it a delightful meal any time of the year. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or serving a crowd, this chili will surely impress with its robust taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this chili comes together quickly, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful & Hearty: The blend of spices and tender meats creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies all appetites.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like sour cream, cheese, and green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze portions for later meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at parties or family get-togethers; everyone will love this comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to create the best chili recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: This pot allows even heat distribution for browning meats and simmering the chili perfectly.
• Slotted spoon: Essential for transferring cooked ingredients without excess grease or liquid, ensuring your chili has the right consistency.

Ingredients

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow recipe! Enjoy it year-round topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

For the Meat

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

For the Vegetables

• 2 medium onions (diced)

Seasonings

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

For the Base

• 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, 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 and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow while stirring occasionally until golden. Remove the lid once golden to achieve desired doneness. Transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels using a slotted spoon. 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, then transfer beef to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add remaining Turkey Bacon grease to your pot over medium heat. Add 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 another 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Return the Beef & Add Beans

Once your onion-tomato mixture simmers, return both Turkey Bacon and browned ground beef back into the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef, bone, chicken, or vegetable). Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed; add more broth if your chili becomes too thick.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth to any table!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili can be a delightful experience, and there are numerous ways to elevate your dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, consider these tasty suggestions for serving your chili.

Topping Ideas

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheese on top enhances flavor and texture.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide crunch and a pop of color.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado complements the spices in the chili.
• Hot Sauce – A splash of hot sauce can ignite your chili with extra heat.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips make for great dippers alongside your chili.
• Rice – Serving chili over rice creates a hearty meal that fills you up.
• Salad – A refreshing side salad balances the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Achieving the best chili recipe requires some tips and tricks. Here are a few that will help elevate your dish.

• Bold Spices – Don’t be shy with spices! Adjust the cumin and chili powder to suit your taste for maximum flavor.
• Quality Meat – Use fresh ground beef or turkey for a more robust flavor and better texture.
• Simmer Longer – Allowing your chili to simmer longer deepens its flavor; aim for at least an hour if you have time.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your chili while cooking to adjust seasoning according to your preference.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last – Stir in fresh herbs or toppings just before serving for vibrant flavors.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with chili enhances the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving.

1. Cornbread – This sweet bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili sauce.
2. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf adds a nice base and complements the richness of the chili.
3. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a comforting twist on traditional servings.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The gooey cheese pairs perfectly with spicy flavors, making it a comforting addition.
6. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole adds freshness and balances out any heat from the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but it’s easy to make common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.

• Using too much spice – Adding too much chili powder or cumin can overwhelm the dish. Start with less and adjust to taste as it simmers.
• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown your meat properly can result in a bland chili. Take the time to sear the ground beef for added flavor.
• Not allowing enough simmering time – Rushing the cooking process might leave your chili watery. Let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes for the best flavors to develop.
• Ignoring salt adjustments – Not tasting before serving can lead to under-seasoned chili. Always taste and adjust salt levels before serving.
• Neglecting toppings – Serving without toppings can make your chili less appealing. Add sour cream, cheese, and green onions for extra flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot; about 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop – Simmer on low heat in a saucepan, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is The Best Chili Recipe made of?

The Best Chili Recipe typically includes ground beef, turkey bacon, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and various spices for flavor.

How long does it take to make The Best Chili Recipe?

The total time is about 75 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables, or spices based on your preferences.

Is The Best Chili Recipe healthy?

With lean ground beef and plenty of beans, this recipe offers protein and fiber while being relatively low in carbs.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The Best Chili Recipe is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Whether it’s a chilly night or you’re hosting a gathering, this chili will surely impress everyone at the table. Give it a try!