Spicy Chili

If you’re craving something hearty and full of flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite go-to comfort dish, Spicy Chili. This dish has been a family favorite for years, especially during those chilly winter nights when all you want is a bowl of warmth. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in like a cozy hug. As we gathered around the table, the steaming bowls of chili ignited conversations and laughter. The beauty of Spicy Chili is not just its rich taste; it brings people together. With its combination of spices and fresh ingredients, every bite feels like a celebration. It’s perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. I love how you can customize it to your liking, whether you prefer it mild or with a serious kick. Spicy Chili is not just food; it’s an experience, and I can’t wait to share my recipe with you!

Ingredients Overview for Spicy Chili

The ingredients in Spicy Chili come together in a harmonious blend that defines this dish. Each element plays a crucial role, balancing flavors and textures. From the savory ground beef to the vibrant bell peppers, these ingredients are key players in creating a satisfying meal that warms the heart and delights the palate.

• 3 lbs ground beef: The star of the dish, providing a hearty base. You can also use half sausage for added flavor.
• 1 green pepper, diced: Adds a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a flavorful pop of color and sweetness.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Essential for depth of flavor, onions are a must in chili.
• 3 small jalapeño peppers, diced: Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Provides an aromatic punch without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• 1/3 cup chili powder: The backbone of the dish, giving it that signature chili flavor.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cumin: Adds earthiness that complements the spices.
• 1 1/2 cups ketchup: For sweetness and a thick consistency.
• 3 tablespoons lime juice: A burst of acidity that brightens the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the acidity and spiciness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the flavor profile with its unique taste.
• 2 teaspoons vinegar: Adds a tangy note to the chili.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard: Gives a slight zest that enhances the overall flavor.
• 3 cups spicy hot V8, or regular: For a vegetable boost and additional flavor.
• 16 oz can kidney beans: Provides protein and texture.
• 14.5 oz can fire roasted tomatoes: Adds rich, smoky flavor to the mix.

How to Assemble Spicy Chili

Creating Spicy Chili is simple and enjoyable. With a few steps, you’ll have a delicious pot simmering away on your stove. Follow along as I guide you through the process, and soon enough, your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of chili!

1. Begin by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. You want it to brown evenly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. As it cooks, keep an eye on the color; it should turn a nice brown without burning.
2. After browning the beef, drain most of the grease from the pan and transfer the meat onto a plate. This step is crucial to keep your chili from being too greasy, which can affect the texture.
3. In the same pot, add the onion, green pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeños. Sauté these veggies on medium-high heat for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften. You’re looking for the onions to turn translucent, which means they’re cooking through but not losing their crunch completely.
4. Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin. Stir everything together for about a minute; this allows the spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
5. Pour in the ketchup, lime juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and mustard into the pan. Stir well until everything is combined. You’ll notice a beautiful mixture forming that already smells incredible!
6. Next, add the kidney beans and fire roasted tomatoes into the pot. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate these ingredients into the flavor base you’ve created. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to pick up any tasty bits that might have stuck.
7. Return the browned ground beef to the pot. This is where all your earlier efforts come together! Stir everything until well mixed. You’ll want to see all the vibrant colors combined.
8. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least one hour. This long cooking time is key for developing rich flavors, so resist the temptation to rush it.
9. After an hour, check your chili. If you prefer it thicker, continue to simmer with the lid off for a little longer. If it’s looking good, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add more spice if you desire.
10. Once ready, serve hot in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings. I love to add a dollop of sour cream or some fresh cilantro for an extra touch!

Helpful Notes about Spicy Chili

Here are some helpful notes to make your experience with Spicy Chili even better. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these tips will guide you in perfecting your chili!

• Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: Chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Pairing: Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delicious side. A fresh salad also complements the richness of the chili.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the chili up to 2 days in advance. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious!
• Mild Chili: For a milder variant, use fewer jalapeños and opt for regular diced tomatoes instead of fire roasted.
• Spicy Variations: To increase the heat, don’t remove the ribs or seeds from jalapeños or add cayenne pepper.

What to Serve Alongside Spicy Chili

Deciding how to serve your Spicy Chili can be just as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the spice of chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up chili, adding a delicious texture contrast.
• Salads: A light side salad can balance the richness of the chili. Consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette.
• Grated Cheese: Top your chili with shredded cheese for a creamy, savory addition.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or green onions sprinkled on top adds a fresh pop of flavor.
• Rice: Serve chili over rice to make it a more filling meal.
• Game Night: This dish is an ideal centerpiece for game nights or casual gatherings.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for a quick meal later.

FAQ

Conclusion

Spicy Chili is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights and gatherings. I invite you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Your taste buds will thank you, and it might just become a favorite in your home!

Spicy Chili

The ultimate comfort food, Spicy Chili is rich, hearty, and full of flavor! This easy weeknight dinner warms you up from the inside out. Perfect for cold winter nights, this chili is sure to become a family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 lbs Ground Beef or use half sausage and half ground beef
• 1 piece Green Pepper diced
• 1 piece Red Bell Pepper diced
• 1 medium Onion diced
• 3 small Jalapeño Peppers diced (seeds and veins removed for less spice)
• Salt and Pepper
• 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
• 1/3 cup Chili Powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Cumin
• 1 1/2 cups Ketchup
• 3 tablespoons Lime Juice
• 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 2 teaspoons Vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Mustard
• 3 cups Spicy Hot V8 or regular
• 16 oz Kidney Beans
• 14.5 oz Fire Roasted Tomatoes

Equipment

• Meat Chopper

Method

 

1. In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef with a wooden spoon. Drain most of the grease and remove meat to a plate.
2. Add **onion**, **green pepper**, **red bell pepper**, and **jalapeños** to the pot and sauté on medium high heat for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add **garlic powder**, **chili powder**, and **cumin**. Stir well.
4. Pour in the **ketchup**, **lime juice**, **brown sugar**, **Worcestershire**, **vinegar**, and **mustard**. Mix well.
5. Next, add the **kidney beans** and **fire roasted tomatoes**. Stir gently.
6. Return the **ground beef** to the pot, bring to a low boil, then cover and simmer.
7. Let it cook for at least one hour, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Once ready, serve hot in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: Chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Tip 3: Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delicious side.
• Tip 4: You can prepare the chili up to 2 days in advance; the flavors deepen over time!
• Tip 5: For a milder variant, use fewer jalapeños and opt for regular diced tomatoes instead of fire roasted.
• Tip 6: To increase the heat, don’t remove the ribs or seeds from jalapeños or add cayenne pepper.

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Meet Diana Foster

I appreciate the beauty of a well-made meal, but I also value simplicity. I’m always looking for that perfect balance of big flavor and low stress. I developed this recipe to be reliable, tasty, and perfect for your daily rotation.