Best Chili Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game day gathering. This chili is loaded with flavor from ground beef, crispy bacon, and three types of beans, making it both hearty and satisfying. With just the right blend of spices, you’ll discover why this recipe stands out among others. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something comforting.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili
• For Garnish
• 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 Garnishes
• Side Pairings
• Creative Twists
• 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 do I store leftovers from the Best Chili Recipe?
• What toppings work well with this Best Chili Recipe?
• Is this Best Chili Recipe spicy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich, savory taste that delights the palate.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, preparing this chili requires minimal effort.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze some for later—this chili tastes even better after sitting!
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 10 people, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking your Best Chili Recipe easier and more enjoyable. Below are essential items you’ll need to prepare this dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for evenly cooking all ingredients together while allowing enough space to stir without spilling.
• Food vacuum sealer: If you plan to store leftovers, this tool helps keep your chili fresh in the freezer for months.

Ingredients

For the Chili

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!

• 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

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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 crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper into the same pot. Cook until both are tender; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess grease by tilting the pot slightly while using a large spoon to remove it.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients including kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes with juice, 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 into the pot. Mix well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer

Cook over medium-low heat for at least 45 minutes. Stir occasionally. For enhanced flavor development, allow simmering longer if time permits; add 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 reserved cooked bacon on top. Enjoy your delicious Best Chili Recipe!

How to Serve Best Chili Recipe

Serving the Best Chili Recipe can elevate your meal experience. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, garnishing and side choices can enhance the flavors and presentation of this hearty dish.

Classic Garnishes

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for added flavor and texture.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the chili with its herbaceous notes.

Side Pairings

• Cornbread: This sweet, buttery bread complements the savory chili perfectly.
• Rice: Serving chili over rice creates a filling and satisfying meal.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a fun way to scoop up chili.

Creative Twists

• Avocado Slices: Adding avocado provides creaminess and healthy fats.
• Jalapeño Peppers: For those who love heat, fresh jalapeños can add an extra kick.

How to Perfect Best Chili Recipe

To make your Best Chili Recipe even better, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can lead to big flavor improvements!

• Bold spices: Use fresh spices for a more vibrant taste. Freshly opened spices pack more punch than old ones.
• Longer simmering time: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances its flavors. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes!
• Adjust thickness: If your chili is too thick, add beef stock or water gradually. This will help you achieve your desired consistency.
• Add sweetness: A touch of sugar or honey can balance out acidity from tomatoes. This subtle sweetness makes a difference!
• Cook in advance: Making chili a day ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Reheating brings out even more depth in taste.
• Experiment with beans: Try different bean varieties for unique textures and tastes. Mixing beans can create a more complex flavor profile.

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Best Side Dishes for Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Best Chili Recipe can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Cornbread: This classic side is slightly sweet and perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Rice: White or brown rice serves as a hearty base under the chili, making it more filling.
3. Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips are great for scooping up every last bit of chili.
4. Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the chili.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The melty cheese and crispy bread pair wonderfully with warm chili.
6. Garlic Bread: This flavorful bread is perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
7. Baked Potatoes: Topped with chili, these fluffy potatoes create a comforting dish.
8. Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to spicy chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Chili Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Bacon: Bacon adds a rich flavor that enhances the chili. Don’t skip this step; use good quality bacon for best results.
• Not Browning the Meat: Properly browning ground beef is crucial for depth of flavor. Take your time and cook it until it’s well-browned.
• Ignoring Simmer Time: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavor develops. Don’t rush; aim for at least 45 minutes.
• Overcrowding with Beans: While beans are great, using too many can make the chili too thick. Stick to three types for a balanced texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different. Always taste your chili before serving and adjust spices as needed.
• Forgetting Garnishes: Toppings like sour cream and cheese elevate the dish. Always add garnishes just before serving for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 4–6 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Best Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place chili in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, typically about 10-15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best Chili Recipe?

This recipe combines flavors from bacon, ground beef, and three types of beans with a perfect spice blend, creating a rich and hearty dish.

Can I customize the Best Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables, adjust spices, or try different meats like turkey or chicken to match your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers from the Best Chili Recipe?

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for later enjoyment.

What toppings work well with this Best Chili Recipe?

Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. These enhance both flavor and presentation.

Is this Best Chili Recipe spicy?

The heat level is adjustable based on personal preference. Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to increase spiciness as desired.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients and toppings according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and discover how easy it is to create a delicious meal that everyone will love!

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