The Best Chili Recipe

My family says this is the BEST chili recipe ever! Chili is one of those cozy, comforting meals that’s always a hit. Packed with flavor, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up and bring people together, whether for a casual dinner or a big game day party.

I remember coming home from school when I was a kid, and my mom had a big pot of chili on the stove. I was a picky kid, but I loved her chili. Give me a piece of buttered bread to dip in, and I was a happy kid.

Everyone has a different way of making it, even though the recipes are often similar. Some use other beans and types of meats. I typically use ground beef but have made it with ground chicken and ground turkey.

This chili recipe is well-loved in my home. My fiancé is a huge fan and raves about how it is “thick and delicious.” I like my chili nice and thick, not runny like a soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Customizable: You can get as creative as you want! Adjust the spices, swap ingredients, or play with the heat level to make it just how you like it.
• Effortless: Chili is easy to prepare, whether you use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or just a stovetop. Once it’s simmering, you can sit back and let the flavors develop.
• Great for Gatherings: Chili is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners. It’s easy to make a big batch, and you can serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

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The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

So what’s in the “best chili ever” (in my opinion!)…check out the ingredients.

• Lean ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base for your chili.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweet and savory flavor.
• Green and red pepper: Add mild sweetness and a bit of color. See my tips on how to easily cut a bell pepper.
• Sliced mushrooms: Bring an earthy flavor and extra texture.
• Crushed tomatoes: Form the rich, tomato-based broth.
• Red kidney beans: Add texture and extra protein.
• Red wine vinegar: Adds a little tang to enhance the flavors.
• Chili powder: The star of the show, giving chili its classic warmth and depth.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

After trying out Presidential Chili, President Obama’s family recipe, I got the idea of adding red wine vinegar to my chili recipe. I love the flavor it adds!

How to Make the Best Chili

Follow along to learn how to make the best chili recipe ever!

• Step One: Add ground beef, onions, green pepper, and red pepper to a large pot. Cook over medium heat until the ground beef is cooked and the vegetables are softened.

• Step Two: Add the rest of the ingredients (minus the garnishes) to the pot. Stir to combine. Cover.
• Step Three: Reduce heat to a simmer on low heat. Cook for 1 hour.
• Step Four: Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream and cheese, if you like.

What to Serve with It

• Cornbread
• Tossed salad
• Cheesy Potato Skins
• Coleslaw
• Cheesy Garlic Biscuits

Garnish Ideas

Eating it plain works, but sometimes you want to jazz up your chili.

• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Corn chips
• Chopped avocado
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Sliced green onions

Variations and Substitutions

• No chili powder? No problem! Make a homemade mix by combining paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of cayenne. Or, use ancho powder for a unique smoky twist.
• Paprika, cumin, and cayenne: If you’re short on chili powder, these three spices can create a similar flavor profile—just adjust the cayenne to control the heat.
• Adjust the spices. This recipe uses six tablespoons of chili powder, so it does have a bit of a kick. You could reduce the amount if you think it might be too strong.
• Change the protein. Instead of ground beef, try ground chicken or turkey. You could also leave it out to make it vegetarian.
• Use different beans. Include more beans. I like black beans and pinto beans. You could use these in addition to or instead of the kidney beans.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? Chili actually gets better with time as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Or, pop it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it’s hot and ready to enjoy.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Chili freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. I love making extra batches to freeze so we can enjoy it for a few dinners over the coming months.

Slow Cooker Instructions

• Step 1: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
• Step 2: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker, then add all the remaining chili ingredients.
• Step 3: Stir everything together, then cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours). Do not lift the lid while it’s cooking; keeping it covered helps the flavors meld.

Instant Pot Instructions

• Step 1: Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and brown the ground beef with the onions and peppers. Drain any excess grease.
• Step 2: Add the rest of the ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on the “Chili” setting or at high pressure for 25 minutes.
• Step 3: Let the pressure release naturally for about 20 minutes, then open the valve to release any remaining pressure. Stir it and enjoy!

How to Thicken It

• Simmer with the lid off: Let your chili cook uncovered to reduce the liquid and thicken it up naturally.
• Mash the beans: Smash a few of the beans to release their starches, which will thicken the chili.
• Cornmeal or polenta: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cornmeal to absorb the liquid and add texture.

What to Do with Leftovers

• Chili-topped baked potatoes: Spoon leftover chili over a baked potato and top with cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
• Breakfast bowl: Serve your chili with scrambled eggs, tater tots, and cheese for a hearty breakfast.
• Chili burrito: For a “wet” burrito, roll up your chili in a tortilla with rice and cheese, then cover with enchilada sauce.

Homemade Chili Recipes

• Taco Chili
• Quick White Bean & Turkey Chili (made in the Instant Pot)
• Bean Chili
• Pumpkin Chili
• Southwestern Turkey 5 Bean Chili
• Pantry Chili
• Cowboy Chicken Chili Casserole
• Chicken Chili
• Chili Macaroni
• White Chicken Chili
• One-Pot Chili Rigatoni
• Frito Chili Pie

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