The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow guide. Perfect for cozy dinners or game day gatherings, this chili is rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor. It’s versatile enough to be tailored to your taste, making it a favorite for any occasion. Topped with gooey melted cheese and fresh green onions, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Rich Flavor: A blend of spices and hearty ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Customize your chili by adjusting the spice levels or adding your favorite toppings.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for future meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, this chili is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the essential tools needed for making the best chili recipe. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and simmering chili without splatters.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing cooked Turkey Bacon without excess grease.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables like onions.

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)
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

For the Spices

• 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 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 hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow while stirring occasionally until golden. Then remove the lid and cook until desired doneness. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease back in. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned then transfer beef to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add remaining tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease back into your pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. 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 onion-tomato mixture simmers, return cooked Turkey Bacon and ground beef back into the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef, chicken or vegetable). Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Let your chili simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or spices as necessary, adding more broth if it becomes too thick.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious chili hot with optional 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 a delightful experience that can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these suggestions will enhance your chili experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices in your chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top creates a rich, gooey texture that complements the chili perfectly.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

Accompanying Breads

• Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread pairs well with the savory flavors of chili and is perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides a flavorful crunch that enhances every bite of chili.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Chili Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Pair your chili with a grilled cheese sandwich for a hearty meal that combines two favorites.
• Chili Nachos – Layer tortilla chips with chili, cheese, and toppings for an exciting twist on traditional nachos.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

To create the best chili recipe, consider these tips that will elevate your dish even further.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality meat enhance the overall flavor profile of your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Taste as you go! Adjust spices according to your preference for heat by adding more cumin or chili powder if desired.
• Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing your chili to simmer longer enhances the flavors and gives it a richer taste.
• Experiment with Beans – Try different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans for added texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Enjoying side dishes alongside chili can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread – This sweet, crumbly bread is excellent for soaking up the flavorful broth of your chili.
2. Rice – A simple side of rice can complement the richness of the chili while providing additional carbs.
3. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili and add a fun texture contrast.
4. Simple Salad – A light salad with fresh greens balances out the hearty nature of the chili and adds brightness to your plate.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be served topped with chili for a filling meal option.
6. Coleslaw – The crispness of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy flavors of the chili.
7. Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned grilled vegetables make for a healthy side dish that pairs well with any bowl of chili.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans serve as a hearty side that ties back into the flavors of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the best chili requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown your meat can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always take the time to brown your ground beef and Turkey Bacon for a rich taste.
• Not seasoning enough – Under-seasoning can make your chili bland. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings like salt, cumin, and chili powder accordingly.
• Using low-quality tomatoes – Poor quality canned tomatoes can affect overall flavor. Opt for high-quality diced tomatoes and sauces for the best results.
• Rushing the simmering process – Quick cooking can result in a watery consistency. Allow your chili to simmer low and slow for at least 15-20 minutes to develop depth of flavor.
• Ignoring broth thickness – If your chili is too thick, it might need more liquid. Don’t hesitate to add more broth or water if necessary.
• Neglecting toppings – Toppings can elevate your dish significantly. Don’t forget to include options like sour cream, cheese, and green onions for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 4 days.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in 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) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop – Place chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about The Best Chili Recipe:

What makes this the best chili recipe?

This recipe stands out due to its rich flavors from browning meats, quality ingredients, and perfect seasoning balance.

How can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition or adjust spices based on your heat preference.

Can I make The Best Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What should I serve with The Best Chili Recipe?

Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with this chili.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!