The Ultimate Chili Recipe

The Ultimate Chili Recipe

Discover the ultimate chili recipe. This hearty, flavorful dish is a crowd pleaser that combines savory spices, tender beef, and wholesome ingredients to create a comforting meal. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or meal prepping, this chili recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Description

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a steaming bowl of chili. This The Ultimate Chili Recipe combines bold flavors, rich textures, and a perfect balance of spices to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a cozy dinner, or just looking for a delicious meal prep option, this recipe has got you covered.

With tender ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, and a medley of aromatic spices, this The Ultimate Chili Recipe is a testament to the art of slow cooking. The layers of flavor develop as the ingredients simmer together, creating a harmony of taste that’s both robust and inviting. Customize it to your liking by adjusting the spice level, adding your favorite toppings, or serving it over rice or cornbread.

This The Ultimate Chili Recipe isn’t just delicious it’s also incredibly versatile. Swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant based alternative to suit dietary preferences. Make it spicy with jalapeños, or keep it mild for the whole family. However you enjoy it, one thing is certain: this chili recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
1 cup kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
1 bay leaf
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, avocado

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the Meat: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes to soften.
Incorporate the Base: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Season the Chili: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Add the bay leaf and stir to distribute the spices evenly.
Add Beans: Stir in kidney beans and black beans. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: This chili freezes well. Portion it into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant based crumbles or additional beans for a vegetarian version.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili powder to your desired heat level.