The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow recipe that is perfect for any occasion. This hearty dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, and its rich flavors are sure to impress everyone. Enjoy this chili topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh green onions for an unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of spices and quality ingredients creates a deep and satisfying flavor profile that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps to follow, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt the toppings or ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch of this chili to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for future meals.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a summer barbecue, this chili is always a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the best chili recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering your chili without burning.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked ingredients while leaving excess grease behind.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and prepare your ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting onions and other ingredients quick and easy.

Ingredients

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

For the Base

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

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 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

Beans

• (2) 15 ounce cans red kidney beans (drained but not rinsed)

Broth

• 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 lid to cook until desired doneness. Transfer cooked Turkey Bacon using a slotted spoon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover bacon grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Using medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease back into your Dutch oven then add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper while browning. Once browned, transfer the beef to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add remaining Turkey Bacon grease to your pot over medium heat. Add diced onions; 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; cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Return Beef & Add Beans

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

Step 5: Simmer Your Chili

Allow your chili to simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If too thick, add more broth gradually.

Step 6: Serve

Top your delicious chili with optional toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce if desired.

Enjoy this amazing dish made using the best chili recipe!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving the best chili recipe is all about enhancing the flavors and making it a delightful experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your chili dish.

Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spiciness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheese on top creates a rich texture and enhances flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy contrast and a hint of freshness.
• Tabasco Sauce – A few dashes can kick up the heat for those who love spice.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can be used for dipping or as a base for chili nachos.
• Rice – Serve over cooked rice to make it a heartier meal, absorbing all the flavors.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili involves attention to detail and some key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your chili is a hit.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meat for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Taste as you go and adjust seasonings based on your preference for heat.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing your chili to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors.
• Experiment with Beans – Try adding different types of beans for variety in texture and taste.
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End – Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving for an added layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chili can round out the meal beautifully. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread – This sweet bread complements the savory flavors of chili wonderfully.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
3. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole adds richness that pairs well with spicy foods.
4. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a filling and satisfying option.
5. Salad – A light salad with zesty vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of rich chili.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies bring smokiness that enhances the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown your meat properly can lead to bland flavor. Take the time to brown the ground beef and Turkey Bacon well for depth.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can leave your chili flat. Taste at different stages and adjust salt, spices, and herbs accordingly.
• Ignoring simmer time: Chili needs time to develop its flavors. Don’t rush this process; let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can affect the taste of your chili. Select high-quality diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for the best flavor.
• Overloading on beans: While beans are great, using too many can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Serving without toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t skip sour cream, shredded cheese, or green onions; they enhance the overall experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chili can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The chili is good for 3-6 months in the freezer.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making The Best Chili Recipe.

What makes this The Best Chili Recipe?

This recipe combines rich flavors from ground beef, Turkey Bacon, and a variety of spices that create a satisfying and hearty dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini or adjust spices to suit your preference. Experiment with different beans too!

How do I make this chili spicier?

To add spice, incorporate jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder. You can also top it with hot sauce before serving.

How long should I let my chili simmer?

Letting your chili simmer for at least 15-20 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Longer simmering enhances taste even more.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it easy to enjoy later.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect year-round. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or toppings—get creative!