Chili recipe lovers, rejoice! This delightful dish is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings. Picture tender beans simmering with vibrant bell peppers, zesty tomatoes, and a medley of spices that dance on your palate. With a dash of smoky paprika and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, every spoonful is a comforting embrace. Top it off with creamy avocado or a sprinkle of cheese for that extra indulgence. Gather your loved ones, and let this chili recipe transform your night into a cozy celebration of flavors!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
chili recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For sautéing and simmering the chili.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground beef or turkey A hearty base for your chili; feel free to use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for the best flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall taste; fresh minced garlic works wonders.
Vegetables
- 1 medium Bell pepper Bring color and crunch; any variety will do, but red and yellow add sweetness.
- 1 can (28 oz) Canned tomatoes Provide a rich, tangy base; crushed tomatoes are great for a smoother texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) Kidney beans Add protein and fiber; rinse and drain for the best results.
Spices
- 2 tablespoons Chili powder The star spice that gives your chili its signature flavor; adjust to your heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds a warm, earthy note; a little goes a long way.
- to taste Salt Enhances all the flavors; taste and adjust as needed.
- to taste Black pepper Adds a subtle kick; freshly ground is always best.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing your veggies; a healthy fat that adds richness.
- 1 cup Vegetable broth A great substitute for beef broth; adds depth without meat.
Instructions
Step 1: Chop the Veggies
- Dice 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, and 2 cloves of garlic. Let’s get those flavors dancing!
Step 2: Sauté the Base
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Protein
- Stir in 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. No pink allowed!
Step 4: Spice It Up
- Add 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat everything in those lovely spices.
Step 5: Pour in the Tomatoes
- Add 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Simmer Away
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Enjoy the aroma!
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
- Give your chili a taste. Need more spice? Add a dash of hot sauce or more chili powder!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Cozy up and dig in!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe
- It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights.
- Customizable to your taste—add beans, veggies, or spice it up!
- Quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy it any night of the week.
- Healthy ingredients that nourish your body and soul.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it a meal prep favorite!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Total Time: | 1 hour |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free |
| Serves: | 4-6 people |
| Best Served: | With cornbread or rice |
Ingredients For Chili Recipe
- Ground beef – a hearty base for your chili recipe; feel free to use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for the best flavor.
- Garlic – enhances the overall taste; fresh minced garlic works wonders.
- Bell peppers – bring color and crunch; any variety will do, but red and yellow add sweetness.
- Canned tomatoes – provide a rich, tangy base; crushed tomatoes are great for a smoother texture.
- Kidney beans – add protein and fiber; rinse and drain for the best results.
- Chili powder – the star spice that gives your chili its signature flavor; adjust to your heat preference.
- Cumin – adds a warm, earthy note; a little goes a long way.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors; taste and adjust as needed.
- Black pepper – adds a subtle kick; freshly ground is always best.
- Olive oil – for sautéing your veggies; a healthy fat that adds richness.
- Vegetable broth – a great substitute for beef broth; adds depth without meat.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Chili Recipe
Gather your ingredients and get ready for some cozy cooking!
Step 1: Chop the Veggies
Dice 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, and 2 cloves of garlic. Let’s get those flavors dancing!
Step 2: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Protein
Stir in 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. No pink allowed!
Step 4: Spice It Up
Add 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat everything in those lovely spices.
Step 5: Pour in the Tomatoes
Add 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Simmer Away
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Enjoy the aroma!
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your chili a taste. Need more spice? Add a dash of hot sauce or more chili powder!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Cozy up and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors and a hearty texture.
Experiment with different beans like black or kidney for added variety.
Let your chili simmer longer for deeper flavors; overnight in the fridge can work wonders!
For a smoky kick, add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Top with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cheese, or cilantro for a personal touch.
How to Serve
- Top with shredded cheese for a melty finish.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with a side of tortilla chips for extra crunch.
- Offer avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy contrast.
- Try it over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Serve in a bread bowl for a fun twist.
- Accompany with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing side.
- For a kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chili fresh:
- Allow chili to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Label with the date before sealing.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage:
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some space for expansion.
- Label with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
To enjoy your chili again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Add a splash of broth for moisture if needed.
- Heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground beef in my chili recipe?
If you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option, you can substitute ground beef with lentils, black beans, or even quinoa. These alternatives provide great texture and protein while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
How can I make my chili spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to your chili. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired spice level.
What toppings go well with chili?
There are so many delicious toppings to enhance your chili! Consider shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. Cornbread or tortilla chips on the side also make for a delightful pairing.
Your Flavorful Feedback
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.