Can I freeze this chili recipe?

Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the chili completely before transferring it to the container. When reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I make this in a crockpot?

Yes, you can partially cook it on the stove first, then transfer to the crockpot to finish cooking on low heat. Follow the instructions up to the point of simmering for 30 minutes, then transfer the mixture to the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Can I leave out the bacon?

The beef bacon adds great flavor to the chili, but you can omit it if needed. To compensate for the smoky flavor, you can increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke. The chili will still be delicious without the bacon, so feel free to customize it to your preferences.

Can I use a different type of meat?

I usually use 90% lean ground beef in this recipe, but you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. The choice of meat may slightly alter the flavor of the chili, but it will still be tasty. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you use.

The Best Chilis Recipe: Ultimate Flavor Explosion

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

The Best Chilis Recipe
The Best Chilis Recipe: Unleashing Flavor
Fundamentals
Preparation/setup
Crafting the Perfect Chili
Technique
Tips/tricks
Elevating Your Chili Game
Perfecting results
Troubleshooting/variations
Serving and Enjoying Your Chili
Serving/presentation
Pairings/storage
Conclusion
FAQs – The Best Chilis Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself smiling while stirring a simmering pot, then you’re in the right place. Cooking isn’t just about feeding the body—it’s about nurturing the soul. My journey into the kitchen began with the best chilis recipe, a dish that evokes memories of laughter-filled evenings and the comforting aroma of spices wafting through the air. It’s a recipe that has grown with me and continues to bring people together.

I started this recipe blog not just to share meals, but to share moments. Some of my fondest memories were made in the kitchen—messy, imperfect, joy-filled memories that always seemed to center around food. Whether crafting a cozy weeknight dinner or testing a nostalgic dessert, each recipe I post is something I’ve truly loved making (and eating). The best chilis recipe is no exception, and it’s a favorite in our home.

This space was born from the belief that cooking shouldn’t be complicated or intimidating—it should be creative, comforting, and, most of all, fun. The best chilis recipe is a testament to that belief, offering a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a dish that invites you to savor each bite, with layers of flavor that dance on your palate.

Over time, this blog has become more than a collection of recipes—it’s become a community. I’m lucky to connect with incredible home cooks who share their tips, tweaks, and even their flops with honesty and enthusiasm. The best chilis recipe has been a centerpiece of these connections, reminding us all why we started cooking in the first place: to bring people together, one bite at a time.

The Best Chilis Recipe

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Author: Aria
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

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Description

Discover the ultimate guide to creating the best chilis recipe! Learn how to make a flavorful and hearty dish that will satisfy your taste buds. Master the art of chili-making today.

Ingredients

– 5 strips beef bacon, chopped
– 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup (240 ml))
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 Tablespoon (15 ml))
– 1 lb ground beef (455g) (I use 90% but any will work)
– 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) brown sugar
– 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) chili powder
– 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) ancho chili powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon (5 ml) cumin
– 1 teaspoon (5 ml) onion powder
– ¾ teaspoons ground black pepper
– ½ teaspoons salt
– ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 ¼ cup beef broth (295ml)
– 15 oz can dark red kidney beans, slightly rinsed and drained (425g)
– 15 oz can black beans, slightly rinsed and drained (425g)
– 14.5 oz can diced fire roasted tomatoes, undrained (411g)
– 7 oz can fire roasted green chilis (198g)
– ¼ cup tomato paste (66g)
– 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
– Preferred toppings: particularly sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and corn chips

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Instructions

Place the chopped beef bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven and cook it on medium heat until it becomes crispy and fully cooked. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and discard all but 1½ tablespoons of the fat.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the pot and sauté them until they become soft, taking about 3-5 minutes.
Introduce the minced garlic and continue cooking until it releases its aroma, which should take roughly 30 seconds.
Incorporate the ground beef into the pot, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. When the beef is about halfway browned, mix in the brown sugar and all the spices, including chili powders, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper, ensuring everything is well combined.
Pour in the beef broth, add the slightly rinsed and drained beans, the undrained canned tomatoes, tomato paste, fire-roasted green chilis, and Worcestershire sauce, along with the cooked bacon, then stir thoroughly.
Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently.
Lower the heat to let the chili simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Serve hot with your choice of toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and corn chips, which are highly recommended!

Notes

For a more flavorful chili, mix beef bacon and regular bacon.
Add smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke for a smoky kick.
To spice up the chili, increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.

The Best Chilis Recipe: Unleashing Flavor

Fundamentals

The best chilis recipe starts with quality ingredients. Beef bacon adds a smoky depth, while ground beef provides a hearty base. The combination of spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin creates a rich, savory profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Beans and fire-roasted tomatoes add texture and a burst of flavor, making this chili both unique and familiar.

Understanding these fundamentals is key to mastering the best chilis recipe. When you combine these elements, you’re not just cooking a meal; you’re crafting an experience. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic sets the stage, while the slow simmering of spices allows each flavor to meld beautifully.

Preparation/setup

To prepare the best chilis recipe, start by cooking the beef bacon until crispy. This step is crucial for adding a smoky richness to the chili. Use the rendered fat to sauté onions and red bell peppers, which release their sweetness and soften the spice blend. Introducing garlic for a brief sauté ensures it doesn’t overpower the dish.

Next, brown the ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces for even cooking. As the beef browns, incorporate the spice blend, allowing the flavors to bloom. This step is the foundation of the best chilis recipe, ensuring that each bite is packed with warmth and complexity.

Crafting the Perfect Chili

Technique

The technique for the best chilis recipe involves a balance of simmering and seasoning. After browning the beef and adding the spices, pour in the beef broth, beans, tomatoes, and chilis. This mixture should be brought to a boil to meld the flavors quickly, then reduced to a simmer for a slow, flavorful infusion.

The simmering process is where the magic happens. It allows the ingredients to deepen in flavor and develop a rich, cohesive taste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This technique is what elevates a simple chili into the best chilis recipe you’ve ever tasted.

Tips/tricks

For the best results, use fresh spices. Their potency and aroma can transform your chili from ordinary to extraordinary. Adjust the spice levels to your liking—more cayenne for heat, or additional brown sugar for sweetness. If you love creative comfort food, you’ll definitely want to try these Bacon Lasagna Crunch Burger for another twist on classic flavors.

Experimenting with different beans or adding corn can add a unique twist to the best chilis recipe. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients. For more hearty meals, check out this delicious Best Homemade Sloppy Joes Recipe.

Elevating Your Chili Game

Perfecting results

Perfecting the best chilis recipe is all about patience and attention to detail. Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and ensures a hearty, satisfying dish. Taste as you go, adjusting seasonings to suit your preferences.

To achieve a thicker consistency, simmer the chili uncovered, allowing excess moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, a small amount of masa harina can be added for a subtle thickening effect. The goal is to create a chili that is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your chili lacks depth, consider adding more smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne or add jalapeños. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chili powders and substitute with more beans or vegetables.

Variations on the best chilis recipe include adding sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness or using different types of beans for varied texture. For more ideas on hearty dishes, explore this flavorful Best Salisbury Steak recipe.

Serving and Enjoying Your Chili

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a key role in enjoying the best chilis recipe. Serve it hot with a variety of toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and corn chips. These add-ons not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful contrast in texture.

For a visually appealing dish, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. This touch of color adds freshness and elevates the overall dining experience. Paired with a side of cornbread or a simple salad, the best chilis recipe becomes a complete meal.

Pairings/storage

When it comes to pairings, a classic cornbread or crusty bread complements the chili perfectly. For more diverse pairings, check out these delicious pancake recipes for breakfast-inspired sides. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to refresh the flavor. The best chilis recipe often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and develop over time.

Conclusion

The best chilis recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey that brings warmth and joy to the table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul. This recipe’s versatility allows for endless customization, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, the best chilis recipe offers an opportunity to explore and enjoy the art of cooking. Its robust profile and comforting nature make it a go-to for gatherings or quiet nights at home. Share it with loved ones and watch as it becomes a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.