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. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights at home or gatherings with friends and family. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, The Best Chili Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps that anyone can follow, making it perfect for beginner cooks.
• Flavor Packed: A blend of spices and savory ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings or add extra veggies for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes a large batch that stores well in the fridge or freezer, ideal for quick meals later.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties or family dinners; everyone will love digging into a warm bowl of chili.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the chili evenly; its heavy bottom prevents burning.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked ingredients without excess grease or liquid.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables and meats, ensuring uniform cooking.

this recipe

Ingredients

To create the best chili recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chili Base

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped into small pieces)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions (diced)
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoon sugar
• 3–4 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained, not rinsed)
• 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:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid.
2. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally until golden.
3. Remove the lid and let cook until desired doneness is reached.
4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside and reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover Turkey Bacon grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same Dutch oven over medium-high heat:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease.
2. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
3. Brown the ground beef completely before transferring it to a clean plate. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

With the heat set to medium:
1. Add remaining tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease to your pot.
2. Add diced onions and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Sprinkle with salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar; mix well.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes while stirring continuously.
5. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Return the Beef and Add Beans

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

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer:
1. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes before serving.
2. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
3. If too thick, add more broth until you reach desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious chili hot:
1. Top each bowl with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce if desired.

This hearty dish serves up to eight people—perfect for sharing! Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili can be as delightful as making it. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with various toppings, there are many ways to elevate your bowl of chili for a perfect meal.

Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a rich and gooey finish.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
• Tabasco Sauce – For those who love an extra kick, a few drops of Tabasco sauce can enhance the heat.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side to soak up the delicious chili broth.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping and add a salty contrast to the chili’s flavors.
• Rice – A side of fluffy rice can help balance the meal and make it more filling.
• Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens offers a nice, crisp contrast to the hearty chili.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. With these tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights.

• Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices provide more flavor than older, pre-ground ones. Consider grinding them just before use.
• Adjust Thickness – If your chili is too thick, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. If too thin, let it simmer longer without a lid.
• Let It Rest – Allowing your chili to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans – Feel free to mix different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, for added texture and flavor variation.
• Taste Before Serving – Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels to suit your preference.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a deliciously crispy element that’s perfect for dipping into chili.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the chili.
3. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a hearty twist on classic comfort food.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans create a colorful, nutritious side that complements chili well.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition while providing an excellent contrast in textures.
6. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas are easy to prepare and pair wonderfully with spicy chili for a satisfying meal.
7. Nachos – Layered nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, and guacamole make an indulgent accompaniment to your bowl of chili.
8. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains offer a unique sweetness that contrasts nicely with spiciness in the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Browning Step – Failing to brown the meat properly can result in a less flavorful chili. Always take the time to sear your meat for richer flavor.
• Not Seasoning Enough – Under-seasoning can make your chili bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and spices to enhance the flavor.
• Overcooking or Undercooking Beans – Using canned beans that are overcooked can lead to mushiness. Be sure to add them at the right time during cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients – Poor quality tomatoes or broth can ruin your dish. Invest in good ingredients for a more satisfying chili.
• Ignoring Consistency – Chili should have a thick, hearty consistency. If it’s too thick, add broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze chili in individual portions for easy meals later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with the date.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat chili covered in an oven-safe dish until hot.
• Microwave – Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about making The Best Chili Recipe? Here are some frequently asked questions that might help!

What makes The Best Chili Recipe unique?

The balance of spices, quality meat, and fresh ingredients creates a rich, robust flavor that sets this recipe apart from others.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor. You can also adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

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

It typically takes about 75 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use different meats in The Best Chili Recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses turkey bacon and ground beef, you can substitute with lamb or chicken based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian option for The Best Chili Recipe?

Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by using plant-based meat substitutes or adding more beans and vegetables instead of meat.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The Best Chili Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you want it spicy or mild, loaded with toppings or simple, you can customize it however you like. Give this delicious chili a try; perfect for any occasion!

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The Best Chili Recipe

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food with this delicious chili recipe, perfect for any season. Packed with hearty ground beef, robust spices, and kidney beans, this dish is sure to warm your soul on chilly nights or during gatherings with friends and family. With a blend of savory ingredients and customizable toppings like creamy sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh green onions, each bowl promises satisfaction. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, this chili can be enjoyed immediately or saved for quick weeknight dinners. Dive into flavors that will make this your go-to recipe for cozy nights at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions (diced)
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3–4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained)
• 2 cups broth (beef or chicken)

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Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, cook diced onions until soft, then stir in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, sugar, and tomato paste for added flavor.
3. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a simmer.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot along with drained kidney beans and broth. Mix well.
5. Allow the chili to simmer on low for about 15–20 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings such as sour cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, or hot sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra texture and flavor variations, consider adding bell peppers or corn. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or add more beans and veggies.