If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, hearty enough to satisfy any appetite, and perfect for sharing with friends or family, then you have to try The Best Chili Recipe. This chili brings together savory turkey bacon and rich ground beef, melded with a smoky blend of spices and a luscious tomato base that simmers into a comforting, thick stew. Every spoonful delivers a cozy warmth that makes it a standout on any dinner table, and it’s just as wonderful enjoyed fresh as it is the next day. Whether it’s a chilly evening or game day, this is your go-to chili that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of The Best Chili Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each element plays a crucial role, whether adding depth, texture, or a burst of color to the pot.
- 1 pound turkey bacon (chopped): Adds a smoky, crispy layer of flavor that infuses the chili throughout.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides rich, hearty substance that makes every bite satisfying.
- 2 medium onions (diced): Bring sweetness and a soft texture that balances the spices.
- 1 tablespoon cumin: Introduces an earthy, warm spice that is critical for authentic chili flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The fundamental seasoning that gives the dish its signature kick and depth.
- 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the chili for the perfect stew-like consistency.
- 3 cans (28 oz) diced tomatoes and tomato sauce: The hearty tomato base that adds acidity and richness to the chili.
- 2 cans (15 oz) red kidney beans (drained): Adds creaminess and texture while complementing the meat perfectly.
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth: Creates the perfect saucy balance and helps everything meld together.
How to Make The Best Chili Recipe
Step 1: Crisp Up the Turkey Bacon
Start by cooking the chopped turkey bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it’s wonderfully crispy. This step releases flavorful fat which becomes the base of your chili. Don’t toss out the grease; you’ll use it to cook the other ingredients, adding depth and richness.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and brown it in that reserved turkey bacon grease. Season it as it cooks to build layers of flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot but keep all those beefy, meaty juices locked in for the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Build the Spice Base
In the same pot, toss in diced onions and sauté them until they turn translucent and tender. Now sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder. Then stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook just enough to bring out its bold, concentrated sweetness—a secret to elevating this chili above the rest.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the cans of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so the flavors start to meld and the sauce thickens beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Meats, Beans, and Broth
Return the crispy turkey bacon and browned ground beef back into the pot. Add the drained kidney beans and 2 cups of broth, stirring well to combine all the ingredients evenly. This is where everything starts to come together like a flavorful symphony.
Step 6: Let It Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat and let your chili simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to marry, thickens the chili, and ensures each bite is packed with the perfect balance of spices, meat, and beans. At this point, your masterpiece is ready to serve.
How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about serving chili is customizing it with delicious garnishes. Try topping your chili with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or even fresh cilantro for a bright finish that adds texture and personality.
Side Dishes
Chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic cornbread or warm tortilla chips offer a crunchy contrast, while a fresh green salad can add a light, refreshing counterpoint to the bold chili flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve The Best Chili Recipe in crispy bread bowls or spoon it over baked potatoes for a meal that feels hearty and special. You could also layer it over nachos, topped with melted cheese and jalapeños, turning your chili into a party favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Chili Recipe tastes even better the next day, so store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, chili freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will be ready to thaw and enjoy any time within 3 months without losing its vibrant flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Microwave reheating works well too—just cover the container and heat in intervals until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the turkey bacon and ground beef, and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What type of beans work best?
Red kidney beans are classic for chili due to their texture and firmness, but you can mix in black beans or pinto beans for variety and different flavor notes.
Is turkey bacon necessary?
Turkey bacon adds a smoky, crispy element without overpowering the dish. However, you can substitute with regular bacon or skip it altogether if you prefer.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to the chili powder and cumin. If you want more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños while cooking.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meats separately, then combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off approach.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say that once you try The Best Chili Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation. It’s the perfect balance of simple ingredients and bold flavors that make every spoonful feel like a warm, comforting hug. So gather your ingredients, get your pot ready, and dive into a bowl of chili goodness that’s sure to impress!
Print
The Best Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe combines turkey bacon, ground beef, and a blend of spices simmered with tomatoes and kidney beans. Perfect for a comforting meal, it’s easy to make and serves eight generous portions.
Ingredients
Meats
- 1 pound turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef
Vegetables & Legumes
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) red kidney beans, drained
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 3–4 tablespoons tomato paste
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 3 cans (28 oz each) diced tomatoes and tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Cook turkey bacon: In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the chopped turkey bacon until it becomes crispy. Reserve the rendered grease in the pot for cooking the next ingredients.
- Brown ground beef: In the same pot with the reserved turkey bacon grease, add the ground beef. Brown the meat thoroughly, seasoning as desired. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté onions and add seasonings: Using the reserved grease, sauté the diced onions in the pot until they become translucent. Then add the cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste, stirring to combine and develop flavor.
- Add tomatoes and simmer: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their sauce, stirring the mixture well. Bring it to a simmer to meld the flavors together.
- Combine meats, beans, and broth: Return the cooked turkey bacon and ground beef to the pot. Add the drained kidney beans and beef or vegetable broth. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.
- Final simmer: Let the chili simmer gently for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to marry. Serve warm with desired toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- Using turkey bacon adds a smoky flavor with less fat compared to traditional bacon.
- Adjust chili powder level based on spice preference.
- For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth or simmer longer.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro.
