Best Chili Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe you will ever make is rich and hearty, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. This chili packs a flavor punch with ground beef, crispy bacon, and a trio of beans. Its unique spice blend offers a comforting warmth that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s game day or a family dinner, this chili is sure to impress!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Best Chili Recipe
• Step 1: Cook the Bacon
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Brown the Beef
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Simmer
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Best Chili Recipe
• Classic Bowl
• Chili Nachos
• Chili Stuffed Peppers
• Chili Tacos
• Chili Over Rice
• Chili in Bread Bowls
• How to Perfect Best Chili Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Best Chili Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Best Chili Recipe
• Reheating Best Chili Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this the Best Chili Recipe?
• Can I customize the Best Chili Recipe?
• How long does it take to cook the Best Chili Recipe?
• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
• Is this Best Chili Recipe spicy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this chili in no time.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or as a topping for nachos and baked potatoes.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili keeps you satisfied.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze some for later!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Food vacuum sealer (optional, for freezing chili)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for simmering.
• Food vacuum sealer: Useful if you plan on freezing leftovers, keeping them fresh for months.

Ingredients

For the Chili:
* 6 strips bacon, good quality, chopped
* 1 red onion, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
* 1 ½ pounds ground beef
* 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
* 1 can pinto beans (15 oz), drained
* 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
* 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes (15 oz), with juice
* 1 can tomato paste (6 oz)
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 cups beef stock
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 2 teaspoons ground cumin
* 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
* 2 teaspoons kosher salt
* 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
* ½ teaspoon ground coriander
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

For Garnish:
* Sour cream
* Cilantro, chopped
* Shredded cheese

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How to Make Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Stir often to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the same pot. Cook until tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned. Drain off any excess grease by tilting the pot and using a large spoon.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients—kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, jalapeño (if using), beef stock, oregano, cumin, cocoa powder, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground coriander, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic—to the pot along with three-quarters of the cooked bacon. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Cook over medium-low heat for at least 45 minutes. For even better flavor, let it simmer longer if possible. Add extra beef stock or water if needed to maintain desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot in bowls garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and the remaining cooked bacon. Enjoy your delicious Best Chili Recipe!

How to Serve Best Chili Recipe

Serving your Best Chili Recipe is an opportunity to get creative. Whether you prefer a simple bowl or a fully loaded platter, there are numerous ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Classic Bowl

• Serve in a deep bowl topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for that classic chili experience.

Chili Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips on a baking sheet, pour hot chili over them, and top with melted cheese. Add jalapeños for extra kick!

Chili Stuffed Peppers

• Hollow out bell peppers, fill them with chili, and bake until the peppers are tender. This makes for a colorful and tasty meal.

Chili Tacos

• Use soft or hard taco shells filled with chili. Top with cilantro and cheese for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

Chili Over Rice

• Serve the chili over fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice helps to absorb the flavors and adds heartiness.

Chili in Bread Bowls

• Hollow out small bread loaves and fill them with steaming hot chili. It’s a fun and edible way to enjoy your meal!

How to Perfect Best Chili Recipe

To elevate your Best Chili Recipe even further, consider these helpful tips for achieving maximum flavor and texture.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality meats enhance the overall taste of your chili.
• Let it simmer longer: The longer you let the chili cook, the more the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 45 minutes.
• Adjust spices carefully: Start with less spice and add more gradually to tailor the heat level to your preference.
• Incorporate different beans: Mixing various beans can add texture and complexity to your chili.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different garnishes like avocado slices or diced red onions for added flavor.
• Make it ahead of time: Preparing your chili a day before allows the flavors to deepen, making it even better when reheated.

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Best Side Dishes for Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Best Chili Recipe enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread: A sweet, crumbly bread that complements spicy chili perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances the heat of the chili.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch from cabbage slaw cuts through the heaviness of chili.
4. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a neutral base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Melty cheese between buttery bread makes for a comforting sidekick.
6. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping into thick chili or simply snacking alongside it.
7. Pickled Jalapeños: Adding tangy heat enhances every bite of the rich chili flavor.
8. Side Salad: A light salad provides freshness and balances out the rich, hearty nature of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your chili game. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality meats and vegetables to enhance flavor and texture.
• Not browning the meat properly: Take your time browning the ground beef; this adds depth to the chili’s flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking the beans: Canned beans should be added later to avoid mushiness; always drain them well.
• Skipping the seasoning layer: Don’t just add spices at once. Layer them in at different stages for a more complex flavor profile.
• Rushing the cooking process: Chili benefits from a slow simmer. Allowing it to cook longer develops richer flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will stay good for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Chili Recipe

• Place chili in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 4-6 months; make sure to label with the date.

Reheating Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best Chili Recipe?

This recipe balances flavors from quality ingredients and spices, creating a hearty dish that everyone loves.

Can I customize the Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables, swap meats, or adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to cook the Best Chili Recipe?

The total cook time is about 1 hour, but longer simmering will improve flavor depth.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that still delivers delicious taste while being lighter.

Is this Best Chili Recipe spicy?

It can be adjusted for heat. For more spice, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper as desired.

Final Thoughts

This Best Chili Recipe is not only packed with flavor but also allows for great versatility. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or at a gathering, it’s sure to impress everyone!