The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy it year-round topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh green onions. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. With rich flavors and a satisfying texture, this chili will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation – With straightforward steps, you can whip up this chili without hassle.
• Rich Flavor Profile – A blend of spices and hearty ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Customizable Options – Adjust spice levels or add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly – A dish that appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best chili, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items to gather before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – Ideal for even cooking and simmering your chili to perfection.
• Slotted spoon – Helps in transferring cooked ingredients without excess liquid.
• Chef’s knife – Ensures precise chopping of vegetables and meats for uniform cooking.

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 Chili Base

• 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 tablespoons sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 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 it’s hot and sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow while stirring occasionally. When golden, remove the lid and cook until desired doneness is reached. 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 the ground beef and season it 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 the diced onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Sprinkle in salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar. Mix well before stirring in the tomato paste; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Then add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Return the Beef and Add Beans

Once your onion-tomato mixture simmers, return both the Turkey Bacon and browned beef back into the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (beef or vegetable). Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Taste test and adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed. If your chili is too thick, add more broth until you reach 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 chili is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop on top can add creaminess and balance the spices.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully over hot chili, adding a savory layer.
• Chopped Green Onions – Freshness and crunch that brightens the dish.

Spicy Additions

• Tabasco Sauce – For those who like it hot, a few dashes will kick up the heat.
• Jalapeños – Fresh or pickled, they add a spicy crunch.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve alongside for a sweet, buttery contrast to the chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping or as a crunchy side.

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting chili takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you create the best chili every time.

• Use Quality Meat – High-quality ground beef makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Layer Flavors – Sauté onions and spices before adding liquids for deeper flavor.
• Adjust Thickness Carefully – If your chili is too thick, gradually stir in more broth until desired consistency is reached.
• Let It Rest – Allowing chili to sit for an hour or overnight helps meld flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the dish perfectly.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly, it’s the perfect counterpart to spicy chili.
2. Rice – White or brown rice can absorb the chili’s flavors and provide a filling base.
3. Salad – A light mixed greens salad offers freshness that balances the richness of the chili.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – A gooey grilled cheese makes for comforting dipping into your bowl of chili.
5. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with leftover chili for a hearty twist.
6. Nachos – Tortilla chips layered with cheese, jalapeños, and served with your chili as a dip creates an exciting snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final taste. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning – Many people underestimate the importance of seasoning in chili. Always season your meat and vegetables throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
• Using too little liquid – Chili can become too thick if not enough liquid is added. Be sure to use enough broth or tomato sauce to achieve the desired consistency.
• Not allowing it to simmer – Rushing the cooking time can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Let your chili simmer for at least 15-20 minutes to develop rich flavors.
• Overcooking the beans – If you cook canned beans too long, they may turn mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking to keep their texture intact.
• Ignoring toppings – Toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions can enhance your chili immensely. Don’t forget to add them for extra flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will last for about 3-4 days.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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 25-30 minutes until hot.
• Microwave – Transfer a portion of chili into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop – Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally, heating until hot, which should take around 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes this the best chili recipe?

This recipe balances savory flavors from beef and spices with hearty beans and tomatoes, creating a deliciously satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize The Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices or add ingredients like bell peppers or corn for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils and ensure all broth used is vegetable-based.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chili?

Cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with chili, adding texture and balance to your meal.

How spicy is The Best Chili Recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder used or by adding fresh jalapeños or hot sauce according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that you can enjoy year-round. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients and toppings based on personal taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night at home, this chili will surely please everyone at the table!