The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow guide! Perfect for cozy nights, gatherings, or game days, this chili is a hearty meal that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. Packed with delicious ingredients and topped with gooey melted cheese and fresh green onions, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Hearty: This chili is rich in flavor thanks to the blend of spices and tender meat.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like sour cream and cheese for added richness.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone loves a good bowl of chili!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best chili recipe, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Great for even cooking and simmering, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked ingredients without extra grease or liquid.
• Cutting board: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and meat.

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Ingredients

To create the best chili recipe, gather these ingredients:

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 tablespoons sugar

For the Base

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

For Beans

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

For Broth

• 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. Cover with a lid and cook low and slow while stirring occasionally. When golden, uncover and let cook until desired doneness. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked Turkey Bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons of leftover grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown thoroughly. Transfer beef to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

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

Step 4: Return the Beef and Add Beans

Once simmering, return both Turkey Bacon and ground beef back to the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (your choice). Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer

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

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious chili hot! Top with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce as desired.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this mouthwatering recipe!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is an art that enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve The Best Chili Recipe and make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheese brings richness and flavor to each bite.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and a burst of freshness.
• Tabasco Sauce – For those who love heat, a splash of Tabasco sauce can elevate the spice level.

In a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowl – Hollow out a sourdough loaf and fill it with chili for a fun and edible serving option.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Rice or Quinoa – Serving chili over rice or quinoa makes for a hearty meal that soaks up all the delicious flavors.

With Cornbread

• Cornbread – Pairing your chili with warm cornbread creates a comforting combination that’s perfect for chilly days.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance The Best Chili Recipe.

• Bold Spices – Use fresh spices for stronger flavors; they can significantly improve the taste.
• Simmer Longer – Allow your chili to simmer longer to let the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Thickness – If you prefer thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered; for thinner, add broth gradually.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your chili and adjust seasonings as needed for perfection.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing sides with chili can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some great side dishes that complement The Best Chili Recipe perfectly.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and savory, this classic is perfect for soaking up the chili.
2. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf adds a light contrast while soaking in the chili’s rich flavors.
3. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful texture contrast when dipped into the chili.
4. Garden Salad – A fresh garden salad provides brightness and balance to your hearty meal.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies add depth and an extra layer of flavor on the side.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans make an attractive and filling side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step – Failing to brown your meat properly can result in a less rich flavor. Always take the time to brown the beef and Turkey Bacon until nicely caramelized.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients – Using subpar canned tomatoes or spices will affect the taste. Opt for high-quality ingredients to elevate your chili’s flavor profile.

• Overcooking or Undercooking Beans – If you use canned beans, add them towards the end of cooking. Overcooked beans can turn mushy, while undercooked beans can be hard and crunchy.

• Not Adjusting Seasonings – Chili often needs a personal touch. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed during cooking to suit your preferences.

• Rushing the Simmering Process – Skipping the simmering step can lead to a bland dish. Allow your chili to simmer longer for flavors to meld beautifully.

• Neglecting Garnishes – Skipping toppings can make your chili feel incomplete. Don’t forget to add garnishes like sour cream, cheese, or green onions for added texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place chili in an oven-safe dish, covering with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make The Best Chili Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Making chili ahead of time actually enhances its flavors as they develop during storage.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter alternative.

How do I thicken my chili?

If your chili is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered until it thickens or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with The Best Chili Recipe?

Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also enjoy it with various toppings!

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With options for customization and easy storage solutions, this recipe is perfect year-round. Give it a try and enjoy crafting your unique version!