Why make this recipe

If you’re looking for a surefire way to impress your guests during a game day gathering or a large family feast, this Flavorful Award-Winning Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s not just about the rich, hearty flavors that’ll warm your soul; this chili is a champion of crowd-pleasing comfort food. With a blend of spices and quality ingredients, it brings the perfect balance of heat and depth, making it a favorite at potlucks and sporting events alike. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in large batches, feeding the masses without breaking a sweat.

How to make Flavorful Award-Winning Chili

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1-2 fresh jalapeños, chopped (optional, adjust for heat preference)
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups beef or vegetable broth

Directions:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the bell pepper and jalapeños, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, tomato sauce, and broth to the pot, stirring to combine.
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to 2 hours.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

How to serve Flavorful Award-Winning Chili

Serving up your chili can be just as fun as making it! Ladle hot chili into bowls and set up a toppings bar with garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeño slices, and tortilla chips. Pair with cornbread or crusty bread for an extra touch of comfort. This chili makes for a great centerpiece for any gathering, bringing everyone together around a delicious meal.

How to store Flavorful Award-Winning Chili

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often the case with this dish), allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Tips to make Flavorful Award-Winning Chili

For a thicker consistency, allow the chili to simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of chipotle in adobo sauce.
Experiment with other beans, like black beans or pinto beans, based on your preference.
If you’re short on time, use a slow cooker to develop flavors over a longer period with minimal effort.

Variation

Feel free to customize this chili to your taste! Try adding different meats such as sausage or bacon, or make it vegetarian by using lentils in place of meat. You can also experiment with sweet additions like corn or bell peppers for added flavor and texture. For a bit of sweetness, a tablespoon of brown sugar can offset the heat of the spices.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s perfect for prep-ahead meal planning.

2. Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the ingredients, especially the sauces, are labeled as gluten-free.

3. Can I add more spice to the chili?
Definitely! Feel free to add more jalapeños, or even a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like it spicy. Adjust according to your taste preferences.