Best Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for the Best Chili Recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This chili is not just any bowl of comfort; it’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy. The combination of ground beef, hearty beans, and zesty spices creates a flavor that’s simply irresistible.

What makes this chili recipe special is how easy it is to prepare while still being packed with flavor. It’s one of those recipes that, once you try it, will become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or hosting friends for game day, this chili will be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: In just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious pot of chili ready to serve!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good bowl of chili, making it perfect for picky eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.
• Comfort food classic: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to make you feel at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and simple! For this Best Chili Recipe, you’ll find all the ingredients are wholesome and easy to come by. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb. ground beef (I used 85/15)
• 1/2 medium yellow onion (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 15-oz. can pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 15-oz. can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 15-oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 cup beef broth (chicken broth or water works, too)
• shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• Fritos (for serving)
• green onion (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this chili is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it spicy.
• Go vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or extra beans for a hearty meatless version.
• Change up the beans: Use black beans or chickpeas instead of pinto and kidney beans for different flavors.

How to Make Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

First, heat a large stockpot over medium/high heat. Add your ground beef along with the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 7–10 minutes until the beef is fully browned. This step is crucial because browning the meat adds depth of flavor to your chili.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

Next, add in your drained pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and maple syrup. Stir everything together well so that all those wonderful flavors combine. The maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness that balances out the spices.

Step 3: Season It Up

Now it’s time to add all those delightful spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in one cup of beef broth (or chicken broth if that’s what you have). Give it another good stir to mix everything nicely.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your pot of beef chili to a boil! Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and thickens up the chili just right.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Lastly, top your chili with shredded cheddar cheese and garnish with chopped green onions for that fresh crunch! Serve with Fritos on the side for an extra fun twist. Now gather everyone around the table and enjoy this hearty dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Best Chili Recipe

Ready to elevate your chili-making game? Here are some pro tips that will help you create the best chili recipe ever!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili. Fresh ingredients pack more punch than their dried or pre-packaged counterparts.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. If time permits, let it cook for an hour or even longer to let all the ingredients meld beautifully.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. On the other hand, if you’re cooking for a crowd with varying spice tolerance, start with less and add more later.

• Mix Up the Beans: While this recipe calls for pinto and kidney beans, feel free to add black beans or chickpeas for additional texture and flavor. Each type of bean brings its own unique taste profile.

• Save Leftovers: Chili tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready for a quick meal.

How to Serve Best Chili Recipe

Serving your chili can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic topping that adds creaminess and richness.
• Chopped Green Onion: Adds freshness and a pop of color on top of your warm bowl of chili.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop brings a tangy contrast that complements the spicy flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread has a soft texture that pairs wonderfully with spicy chili, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, these crunchy chips provide a satisfying contrast to the hearty chili.
• Rice: Serving your chili over rice is an easy way to turn it into a filling meal while balancing out the spice.
• Simple Salad: A fresh salad with greens and vinaigrette can lighten things up and offer a refreshing crunch alongside your rich bowl of chili.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your own version of the best chili recipe! Enjoy every hearty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This best chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For convenience, consider portioning it out into single servings.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious chili recipe!

What makes this the best chili recipe?

This best chili recipe combines rich flavors from ground beef, beans, and a homemade blend of spices that creates a comforting and hearty dish everyone will love.

Can I customize this best chili recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap beans according to your preference. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility!

How long does this chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chili lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this chili recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a delicious flavor while being slightly lighter in fat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this best chili recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings people together. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping, I’m sure you’ll be coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!