The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow guide. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this hearty dish is packed with flavor and can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply looking for a comforting meal, this chili will surely impress everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor – A blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Easy Preparation – With straightforward steps, making the best chili recipe is simple and quick.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect for serving at parties, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Customizable Toppings – Enjoy with various toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein and beans, this chili will keep you satisfied and warm.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best chili recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need for an efficient cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven – Perfect for slow cooking your chili evenly while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Slotted spoon – Ideal for transferring cooked ingredients without excess grease or liquid.
• Cutting board & Knife – Essential for preparing vegetables quickly and safely.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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 Bacon to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally until golden. Remove the lid and continue cooking until desired doneness. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked Turkey Bacon 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. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef thoroughly before transferring it to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

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

Step 4: Return Beef & Add Beans

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

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer on low heat for about 15–20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning by adding additional salt or spices as needed. If it becomes too thick, add more broth to achieve your desired consistency.

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 your chili can elevate the entire meal experience. Whether you enjoy it by itself or paired with tasty sides, there are countless ways to enjoy the best chili recipe.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and balances the heat of the chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheese on top creates a deliciously rich contrast with the spicy chili.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor.

Unique Pairings

• Tabasco Sauce – A few drops can kick up the heat for those who prefer extra spice.
• Cornbread – Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the savory flavors of your chili perfectly.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are great for scooping up chili, adding a fun texture to each bite.

Bowl Enhancements

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado can add richness and balance out the spices.
• Fresh Cilantro – A sprinkle of cilantro gives a fresh and vibrant taste that brightens up each serving.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect bowl.

• Bold Flavors – Don’t be shy with spices; they enhance the depth of your chili. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Texture Matters – For more texture, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn to your mix. This variation brings additional layers to each bite.
• Simmer Time – Allowing your chili to simmer longer deepens the flavors. An extra 15-30 minutes can make a noticeable difference.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices gradually rather than all at once for optimal flavor development.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili can enhance your overall meal. Here are some great options that complement the best chili recipe beautifully.

1. Cornbread – This sweet bread is an ideal companion, soaking up the flavors while adding its own sweetness.
2. Rice – White or brown rice provides a neutral base that helps balance out spiciness in the chili.
3. Salad – A light green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that contrasts well with hearty chili.
4. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a filling twist on traditional servings.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies add another layer of flavor and nutrition to your meal.
6. Nachos – Layer tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and olives for a fun appetizer alongside your main dish.
7. Guacamole – This creamy dip pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors, enhancing every bite of your chili.
8. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the chili perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the browning step – Not browning your meat properly can lead to a dull flavor. Ensure you brown the ground beef well for a deeper taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking beans – Adding canned beans too early or cooking them too long can ruin their texture. Add them at the right time and simmer gently.
• Not seasoning adequately – Under-seasoning can result in bland chili. Taste and adjust your seasonings throughout the cooking process for the best results.
• Using low-quality tomatoes – The base of your chili heavily relies on tomatoes. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes to enhance flavor.
• Ignoring simmer time – Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow enough time for the chili to meld its flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as chili expands when frozen.

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 about 30 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this recipe that may help you achieve perfect results.

How do I make The Best Chili Recipe spicy?

You can add more chili powder or diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use different types of meat in The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey with chicken, lamb, or even plant-based options for variety.

What toppings work well with The Best Chili Recipe?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and avocado slices. Get creative with your favorites!

How long does The Best Chili Recipe take to cook?

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

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The Best Chili Recipe offers rich flavors and hearty textures that make it perfect for any occasion. With endless customization options—from spice levels to toppings—you can easily adapt it to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!