Best Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms the soul and satisfies your taste buds, you’ve come to the right place! This is my go-to recipe for the Best Chili Recipe, and I promise it will become a favorite in your home as well. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this chili is hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make.

What makes this chili special? It’s all about the delightful combination of ground beef, beans, and a rich blend of spices that creates an explosion of flavor in every spoonful. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, everyone will love digging into a warm bowl of chili.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time! It freezes beautifully for easy meals later on.
• Customizable: Top it with cheese, Fritos, or whatever you fancy—each bowl can be unique!
• Delicious Flavor: Each ingredient works together to create a comforting taste that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Best Chili Recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these up for a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

For the Chili

• 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 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 cup beef broth (chicken broth or water works too)

For Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Fritos
• Green onion

Variations

One of the best things about this chili is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you like some heat in your chili.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious meat-free version.

How to Make Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

First, heat a large stockpot over medium/high heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything 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: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Next, add in your drained pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and maple syrup. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors together. The combination of beans and tomatoes provides great texture and richness to your dish.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Now it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in your chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and pour in one cup of broth. Stir everything well to ensure each ingredient is evenly distributed. The spices are key players here—they bring warmth and complexity to this Best Chili Recipe!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your chili mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. This allows everything to thicken nicely while melding all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Finally, ladle out generous portions into bowls and top them with shredded cheddar cheese, crunchy Fritos, and sliced green onions as desired. Enjoy this comforting dish on its own or with some crusty bread!

This Best Chili Recipe is sure to be a hit around your table! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Best Chili Recipe

Making the best chili is all about layering flavors and perfecting your technique. Here are some pro tips to take your chili to the next level!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality produce and spices can make a huge difference in taste. Opt for organic tomatoes and fresh herbs if possible for a richer flavor.

• Let it Simmer: Take your time with the simmering step. Allowing your chili to simmer longer not only thickens the sauce but also melds the flavors beautifully, making each bite more delicious.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like heat, add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Start with a little and taste as you go to find your perfect balance of spice.

• Experiment with Beans: While pinto and kidney beans are classic choices, feel free to mix in black beans or chickpeas for added texture and nutrition.

• Make It Ahead of Time: Chili often tastes even better the next day, so consider making a big batch in advance. It’s perfect for meal prepping and makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

How to Serve Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is all about creating a cozy experience, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night at home. Here are some delightful ways to present your dish.

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic topping that adds creaminess and richness.
• Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch that complements the hearty chili perfectly.
• Avocado Slices: For a creamy texture that balances out the spices, slices or chunks of avocado are a great choice.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Rice: A fluffy bed of rice can help balance out the spiciness while providing extra sustenance.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of chili and adds freshness to your meal.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun side that can be dipped into your chili or enjoyed on their own.

Enjoy serving this comforting bowl of goodness! Your family and friends will surely love it, making it an instant favorite at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This best chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, hearty meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the containers with the date so you know when to use them.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated evenly.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making this best chili recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I customize this best chili recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

How long does this best chili recipe take to cook?

This chili takes about 30 minutes of cooking time after prepping your ingredients, making it a quick and satisfying meal!

What can I serve with my chili?

Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch!

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You may want to adjust seasonings slightly for flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this best chili recipe as much as I do! It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about creating warmth and comfort in your home. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this chili is sure to impress. So grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking—happy eating!