The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow guide. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. With rich flavors and the option to customize toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details of making The Best Chili Recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe features straightforward steps that even novice cooks can follow without any hassle.
• Full of Flavor – The combination of spices and ingredients creates a robust flavor profile that makes each bite delicious.
• Versatile Toppings – Customize your chili with various toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and green onions for added flair.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later use.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this chili fits every setting.

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Chili Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures cooking is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – Ideal for slow cooking and allows for even heat distribution, making it perfect for chili.
• Slotted spoon – Helps to transfer cooked ingredients without excess liquid, maintaining texture in your dish.

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Ingredients

For the Base

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

Seasoning

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

Sauces and Tomatoes

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

Beans and Broth

• 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 hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally until golden. Remove the lid to allow further cooking until desired doneness. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. 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 back into the pot. Add ground beef, browning it while seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer browned beef to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add remaining Turkey Bacon grease to the pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Sprinkle with salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar; mix well. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Return Beef & Add Beans

Once your onion mixture simmers, return cooked Turkey Bacon and ground beef to the pot. Stir in red kidney beans and add 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef, bone, chicken, or vegetable). Mix everything well.

Step 5: Simmer

Let your chili simmer for 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed. If too thick, add more broth as desired.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy making The Best Chili Recipe—a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili can elevate your dining experience. You can add various toppings and sides to enhance flavors and textures, making it a delightful meal for everyone.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheese on top adds creaminess and flavor.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spices and provides a cool contrast.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
• Tabasco Sauce – For those who enjoy heat, a few dashes of Tabasco will spice things up.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the chili’s savory notes perfectly.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is great for dipping into the chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can be used as scoops for the chili, adding a fun element to the meal.

Salad Options

• Simple Green Salad – A refreshing salad with mixed greens provides balance to the chili’s richness.
• Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and a touch of sweetness.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili is all about technique and tweaking flavors. Here are some tips to make sure you create the best chili recipe every time.

• Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices bring out stronger flavors compared to pre-ground varieties.
• Let it Simmer Longer – Allowing your chili to simmer longer deepens the flavors as ingredients meld together.
• Adjust Seasonings – Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor balance.
• Experiment with Beans – Try different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety in texture and taste.
• Add Vegetables – Incorporating bell peppers or zucchini can boost nutrition while adding depth to the dish.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Cornbread – A classic pairing; its slight sweetness complements spicy chili well.
2. Rice – Serving over rice provides a hearty base that soaks up delicious flavors.
3. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes make an excellent canvas for serving chili on top.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Melty grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add a colorful, nutritious side that pairs beautifully with chili.
6. Quesadillas – Cheese quesadillas offer a satisfying crunch alongside your warm bowl of chili.
7. Pickle Relish – A tangy pickle relish adds an unexpected zing that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality meat for the best flavor. Avoid canned tomatoes that are past their expiration date.

• Overcooking or undercooking the meat: Ensure your ground beef is browned properly before adding it to the pot. This adds depth to the dish.

• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skimp on spices like cumin and chili powder. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly to enhance the flavor.

• Skipping the simmering step: Allow your chili to simmer for enough time. This melds the flavors together, making it more delicious.

• Not adjusting for thickness: If your chili is too thick, add more broth to reach your desired consistency. Balance is key!

• Forgetting about toppings: Toppings like sour cream and cheese can elevate your dish. Don’t forget to add them for extra flavor and texture!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chili can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 25-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this The Best Chili Recipe?

This recipe combines quality ingredients with robust spices, ensuring a rich flavor that stands out among others.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap beans based on your preference.

How spicy is this chili recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder and adding fresh peppers if you prefer more heat.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This chili keeps well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

This recipe offers a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect year-round. With its rich flavors and customizable options, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of The Best Chili Recipe!