Best Chili Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe you will ever try! This chili is perfect for cozy family dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its hearty mix of ground beef, crispy bacon, and three types of beans, it brings a unique blend of flavors that will warm your heart. Topped with sour cream and shredded cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deep, satisfying taste that elevates traditional chili.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without hassle.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and freeze for quick meals during busy weeks.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 10 servings, it’s ideal for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and prevents burning while simmering the chili.
• Food vacuum sealer: This tool is helpful if you plan to freeze leftover chili for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

The best chili recipe I have ever made! It’s packed with ground beef, bacon, and three kinds of beans, with just the right combination of spices for the perfect flavor. Top it off with a little sour cream and shredded cheese—yum!

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
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

For Garnish:

• Sour cream
• Cilantro, chopped
• Shredded cheese

PIN THIS!

How to Make Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp. Stir often to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the same pot. Cook until they are tender while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned throughout. Tilt the pot slightly to drain off any excess grease using a large spoon.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients: kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, jalapeño (if using), beef stock, dried oregano, cumin, cocoa powder, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground coriander, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. Stir everything together along with about 3/4 of the cooked bacon.

Step 5: Simmer

Cook over medium-low heat for at least 45 minutes. Stir occasionally. For deeper flavors, let it simmer longer—ideally throughout the day—adding extra beef stock or water as needed for consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot in bowls garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and remaining cooked bacon on top. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Best Chili Recipe

Serving your Best Chili Recipe can elevate the experience and make it even more satisfying. Here are some delightful ways to serve your chili that will impress your family and friends.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for a melty, savory finish.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances flavor with its bright, herbaceous notes.

Accompanying Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and crumbly bread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up every bite.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a great texture contrast and are perfect for dipping.
• Rice: Serve your chili over fluffy rice to create a hearty meal that’s filling and satisfying.

Creative Twists

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance the heat of the chili.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors in your bowl.

How to Perfect Best Chili Recipe

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your Best Chili Recipe, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance taste and ensure a rich, satisfying dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality meat and fresh vegetables will significantly improve the overall flavor.
• Let It Simmer Longer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the more developed the flavors become. Aim for at least 45 minutes but longer is even better.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your heat by adding more or less chili powder or cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Add a Secret Ingredient: A splash of beer or a spoonful of brown sugar can add depth to the flavor profile.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste during cooking; this allows you to adjust seasoning to suit your palate.
• Chill Overnight: If possible, refrigerate your chili overnight. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your delicious chili can create a well-rounded meal. These options complement the flavors beautifully and add variety to your table.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up chili while adding aromatic flavor.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and balances the heat with its tangy dressing.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for an extra hearty dish.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Melty grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect for dipping into warm bowls of chili.
5. Side Salad: A simple green salad adds freshness and lightness alongside rich chili.
6. Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins: These spicy muffins enhance the meal with their sweet yet zesty kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your chili turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Ignoring the spices: Spices are crucial for flavor. Always measure your spices accurately and adjust according to your taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking the meat: Properly browning the beef enhances flavor. Cook until it’s browned but not burnt for a rich base.
• Skipping the simmering step: Simmering allows flavors to meld together. Don’t rush this process; aim for at least 45 minutes for optimal taste.
• Not using quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients make a difference. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality meat for the best results.
• Failing to taste test: Always sample your chili before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure it meets your flavor preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container.
• item Best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Best Chili Recipe

• item Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• item Can be frozen for up to 4-6 months.

Reheating Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Best Chili Recipe stand out?

The combination of ground beef, bacon, and three types of beans creates a robust flavor profile that is both hearty and satisfying.

Can I customize the Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices, add more beans, or include different vegetables based on your preferences.

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

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with cooking time around 45 minutes, making it a great option for dinner.

Is the Best Chili Recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! It can be frozen for up to 4-6 months, making it perfect for meal prep.

What toppings pair well with the Best Chili Recipe?

Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped cilantro for added flavor and creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Best Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spice levels to make it your own. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, this chili is sure to please everyone at your table!