The Best Chili Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this chili brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its rich blend of spices and savory ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The best part? You can enjoy it topped with gooey melted cheese or fresh green onions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This chili recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed – A unique blend of spices ensures each bowl is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile – Serve it as a main dish or pair it with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Family Friendly – With its delicious taste, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to create this fantastic chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – Ideal for slow cooking and allows for even heat distribution, ensuring your chili simmers perfectly.
• Slotted spoon – Perfect for transferring cooked meats without excess grease, helping keep your dish balanced.
• Measuring spoons – Ensure you get the spice ratios just right, leading to consistent flavors every time.

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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 Meat

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

For the Vegetables

• 2 medium onions (diced)

For Seasoning

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

For the Sauce

• 3-4 tablespoon 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, 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 sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally until golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked pieces to paper towels. Reserve 2 tablespoons of grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of reserved grease. Brown the ground beef while seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer to a clean plate once browned.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add remaining Turkey Bacon grease back to the 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 another 1-2 minutes before adding diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Return Beef & Add Beans

Once simmering, return Turkey Bacon and ground beef back into the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or spices; add additional broth if too thick.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy this deliciously satisfying bowl of The Best Chili Recipe!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and sides that enhance the dish’s flavor. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, here are some suggestions to make your serving experience delightful.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A cool contrast that balances the spiciness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully on top, adding richness and depth.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh and crunchy, they add a nice pop of color and flavor.

Spicy Additions

• Tabasco Sauce – For those who love an extra kick, a few drops will do the trick.
• Jalapeños – Sliced fresh or pickled, they bring heat and crunch to each bite.

Accompanying Sides

• Cornbread – Sweet and buttery, it’s perfect for soaking up chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy and salty, they make a great scoop for chili.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

To elevate your chili to new heights, consider these simple tips. They can help enhance flavors and improve texture.

• Bold Seasoning – Don’t be shy with spices; adjust according to your taste for a richer flavor.
• Layering Ingredients – Cook ingredients in stages to build depth in flavor. Start with meat, then add vegetables, followed by liquids.
• Simmer Longer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer melds flavors together beautifully.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your chili while cooking; this allows adjustments before serving.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to complement your dish.

1. Cornbread – A classic pairing that’s slightly sweet and fluffy; serve warm with butter.
2. Rice – Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs chili perfectly; cook it simply for balance.
3. Salad – A crisp green salad provides freshness; consider a light vinaigrette dressing.
4. Baked Potatoes – Serve them topped with chili for a hearty twist on dinner.
5. Garlic Bread – Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add healthy color and flavor alongside the richness of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Chili Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can hinder the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Meat – Cooking your ground beef for too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice brown color but remove it from heat once cooked through.
• Neglecting Seasoning – Under-seasoning can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Skipping the Simmer – Not allowing enough simmer time can result in a watery texture. Let your chili simmer for at least 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.
• Ignoring Bean Preparation – Using un-drained beans can add unnecessary liquid. Always drain your canned beans before adding them to the mix.
• Not Customizing Toppings – Sticking to just one topping can limit flavor. Experiment with different toppings like avocado or jalapeños for added zest.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Best Chili Recipe will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add broth if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make The Best Chili Recipe spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Can I substitute ground beef in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey or lamb works well as alternatives while still delivering rich flavor.

What are some great toppings for chili?

Sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and even avocado make excellent toppings for enhancing flavors.

How long does The Best Chili Recipe take to prepare?

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

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile enough for customization. You can easily adjust spices or toppings based on personal preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of chili anytime!