Award Winning Beef Chili
The first time I made this chili, my oldest, Leo, who usually eyes anything new with suspicion, took one bite and declared, “Mom, this is the best chili in the whole world!” His little sister, Maya, chimed in with “Award winning!” and then quickly started a happy chili dance in the kitchen.
Even tiny Finn, still mostly on purees, reached eagerly for a spoonful of the mild version I made for him. That night, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.
This wasn’t just another dinner; it was a moment, a memory in the making, and the birth of our family’s beloved, truly Award Winning Beef Chili. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings, bustling potlucks, or just a quiet family dinner where everyone needs a little extra comfort. You see, for me, food is love, and this hearty, flavorful Award Winning Beef Chili recipe embodies that sentiment perfectly.
It’s simple to prepare, yet tastes incredibly complex, and it nourishes both body and soul. Every time I prepare this Award Winning Beef Chili, I’m reminded of that first joyful reaction, and I know you will create similar happy memories around your own table.
Why You’ll Love This Award Winning Beef Chili Recipe
You will adore this Award Winning Beef Chili for so many reasons! First, it truly delivers on flavor. We combine rich ground beef with a robust blend of spices, tomatoes, and beans for an unforgettable taste experience.
This isn’t just a basic chili; it’s a deeply satisfying, complex dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Moreover, it is incredibly easy to make. As a busy mom of three, I value recipes that require minimal fuss but yield maximum deliciousness, and this Award Winning Beef Chili fits the bill perfectly. You can achieve this incredible flavor without spending all day in the kitchen.
Furthermore, this Award Winning Beef Chili recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences, making it ideal for both spice lovers and those with more sensitive palates. It also makes fantastic leftovers; in fact, many people find it tastes even better the next day!
This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks. We often double the batch of our Award Winning Beef Chili and freeze half for a quick, wholesome meal on a hectic evening. It is truly a crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day gatherings, cozy family nights, or even a casual dinner party. You will consistently impress your guests and family with this comforting, flavorful dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80/20) | 2 lbs |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Yellow Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Canned Diced Tomatoes (undrained) | 28 oz can |
| Canned Tomato Sauce | 15 oz can |
| Canned Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained | 15 oz can |
| Canned Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained | 15 oz can |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups |
| Chili Powder | 3 tbsp |
| Cumin | 1 tbsp |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne Pepper (optional, for heat) | 1/2 tsp (or to taste) |
| Salt | 1 tsp (or to taste) |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 tsp (or to taste) |
Substitutions & Variations
This Award Winning Beef Chili recipe offers a fantastic base, and you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!
* Meat Options: Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and ground pork for a different flavor profile. For a richer chili, use stew meat, cut into small cubes, and brown it thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This will require a longer simmer time for tenderness.
You can also make this Award Winning Beef Chili a blend of meats.
* Bean Varieties: Feel free to swap out the kidney and pinto beans for black beans, cannellini beans, or even a chili bean blend. Each type offers a slightly different texture and flavor, so choose your favorites!
* Vegetable Boost: Sneak in extra veggies! Diced bell peppers (any color), shredded carrots, or even corn kernels make excellent additions. Add them with the onion and garlic for extra flavor and nutrients.
This can make your Award Winning Beef Chili even heartier.
* Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your preference. For more kick, add extra cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or even a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the onions.
For a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne.
* Smoky Flavor: A dash of liquid smoke (1/4 to 1/2 tsp) can deepen the smoky notes, especially if you skip the smoked paprika. A chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced, also adds incredible smoky heat to this Award Winning Beef Chili.
* Slow Cooker Adaptation: Convert this Award Winning Beef Chili to a slow cooker recipe! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll still achieve fantastic results with this Award Winning Beef Chili.
While this beef chili is incredibly versatile, you might also enjoy exploring other chili variations to broaden your culinary horizons. For a delightful change, consider our Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Award Winning Beef Chili is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delicious, hearty meal.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef.
Break it apart with a spoon and cook until thoroughly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor in your Award Winning Beef Chili.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped yellow onion to the pot with the browned beef.
Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3.
Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If using, add the cayenne pepper now. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
This “blooming” of the spices enhances their flavor significantly, making your Award Winning Beef Chili more aromatic and delicious.
4. Incorporate Liquids and Beans: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are full of flavor! Next, add the rinsed and drained kidney beans and pinto beans.
5. Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let your Award Winning Beef Chili cook for at least 1 hour.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. For the best flavor, aim for a simmer of 2-3 hours; the longer it simmers, the more the flavors deepen and meld.
6.
Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the chili. Adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired. You might find it needs a little more chili powder or cumin to reach your perfect flavor profile.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot Award Winning Beef Chili into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy your incredible homemade meal!
Pro Tips for Success
* Don’t Skip Draining the Fat: Excess fat can make your chili greasy. Always drain off the rendered fat after browning the ground beef. This ensures a cleaner, richer flavor profile for your Award Winning Beef Chili.
* Bloom Your Spices: Cooking the spices directly in the pot with the onions and garlic for a minute or two before adding liquids is a game-changer. This process, called “blooming,” awakens their essential oils, resulting in a more intense and complex flavor for your Award Winning Beef Chili.
* Scrape the Bottom: When adding liquids, use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pot.
These bits contain concentrated flavor and will dissolve into the chili, adding incredible depth.
* The Longer the Simmer, the Better: While 1 hour works, this Award Winning Beef Chili truly benefits from a longer simmer. Aim for 2-3 hours on low heat, covered.
The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld, deepen, and create that rich, comforting taste you crave. A slow simmer tenderizes the beef further and infuses every spoonful with amazing flavor.
* Adjust Seasoning at the End: Salt levels can vary, especially with different broths.
Always taste your Award Winning Beef Chili at the end of cooking and adjust the salt, pepper, and spice levels to your personal preference.
* Fresh Ingredients Matter: While canned goods are convenient, using fresh, good quality onions and garlic makes a noticeable difference in the overall taste of this Award Winning Beef Chili.
* Layer Flavors: Beyond the initial spice bloom, consider adding a dash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving. A touch of acidity brightens all the flavors in your Award Winning Beef Chili.
Mastering the small details, like draining fat and blooming spices, ensures your chili is perfect every time, just as thoughtful preparation elevates any family meal. When you’re looking for another fun and easy recipe that brings smiles to little faces, don’t miss our Spooky Mini Mummy Pizzas Recipe.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Award Winning Beef Chili makes fantastic leftovers, and storing it properly ensures you can enjoy it for days to come.
* Refrigeration: Once your Award Winning Beef Chili cools to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is perfect for meal prepping your week.
* Freezing: Chili freezes exceptionally well! Portion the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay bags flat to save space.
It will remain fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen Award Winning Beef Chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* Reheating on the Stovetop: For best results, reheat chili on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a gentle simmer and is heated through.
If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
* Reheating in the Microwave: For individual portions, microwave the chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly hot.
Be careful, as it can get very hot quickly.
* Reheating in a Slow Cooker: If you have a large batch, you can reheat it in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. Stir occasionally. This is great for parties or gatherings where you want to keep your Award Winning Beef Chili warm.
What to Serve With This Recipe
* Classic Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their bowl. Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and diced avocado are always popular choices. A squeeze of fresh lime juice also brightens the flavors of this Award Winning Beef Chili.
* Cornbread: Fluffy, slightly sweet cornbread is the quintessential accompaniment to chili. Its crumbly texture and sweet notes beautifully complement the savory, spicy flavors of the Award Winning Beef Chili. Consider making a batch from scratch or using your favorite mix.
* Crackers or Tortilla Chips: A simple bowl of oyster crackers or a hearty scoop of tortilla chips adds a satisfying crunch. They also serve as an excellent vehicle for scooping up every last bit of that amazing Award Winning Beef Chili.
* Rice: Serve your Award Winning Beef Chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for an even heartier meal.
The rice soaks up all the delicious chili juices.
* Simple Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili.
* Baked Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Spoon a generous amount of Award Winning Beef Chili over a warm baked potato or sweet potato for a comforting, substantial meal. Don’t forget the cheese and sour cream!
Enhancing your chili with the right toppings elevates the dining experience, much like using the right equipment can transform your entire cooking process. To make your kitchen adventures even more efficient and health-conscious, explore our recommendations for Smart Kitchen Tools for Healthier Cooking.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of this Award Winning Beef Chili, simply omit the ground beef. Instead, increase the amount of beans (use 3-4 cans of various types like black, kidney, and pinto) and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
You might also want to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The spices will still deliver fantastic flavor!
How can I make this chili less spicy for kids?
For a milder version of this Award Winning Beef Chili, completely omit the cayenne pepper. You can also start with just 1-2 tablespoons of chili powder and taste before adding more. Serve with plenty of cooling toppings like sour cream and cheese, which help to cut the heat. You can always add hot sauce to adult portions later.
Can I use different types of ground meat?
Yes, you certainly can! While this recipe is for Award Winning Beef Chili, you can easily substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or a mix of ground beef and pork. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed, and ensure any ground poultry is cooked through. The cooking process for this Award Winning Beef Chili remains largely the same.
Is it possible to make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, in fact, making this Award Winning Beef Chili ahead of time is highly recommended! The flavors actually deepen and meld even more after a day or two in the refrigerator. Simply prepare it as directed, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve. This truly makes the Award Winning Beef Chili even better.
What kind of pot is best for making chili?
A heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven is ideal for making this Award Winning Beef Chili. Its thick construction distributes heat evenly and helps prevent sticking and scorching. It also retains heat well, which is perfect for the long simmering period that develops those rich flavors.
How long does the chili need to simmer?
For the best flavor, this Award Winning Beef Chili benefits from at least a 2-3 hour simmer on low heat. However, you can certainly enjoy it after just 1 hour of simmering if you are short on time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors marry and the chili thickens beautifully.
Chili con carne, a stew-like dish containing chili powder, ground meat (often beef), tomatoes, and beans, holds a significant place in American culinary tradition. It’s often celebrated for its versatility and comforting flavors, leading to countless regional variations and competitive cook-offs.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(This is an approximate nutritional estimate for a serving of this Award Winning Beef Chili and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 80 mg |
| Sodium | 950 mg |
Award Winning Beef Chili
This 'Award Winning Beef Chili' recipe is a beloved family dish known for its rich flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility. It combines rich ground beef with a robust blend of spices, tomatoes, and beans, creating a deeply satisfying, complex dish perfect for chilly evenings, bustling potlucks, or quiet family dinners. It's designed to nourish both body and soul, with flavors that deepen and improve with time, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20)
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 large Yellow Onion, chopped
4 cloves Garlic, minced
28 oz can Canned Diced Tomatoes (undrained)
15 oz can Canned Tomato Sauce
15 oz can Canned Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
15 oz can Canned Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups Beef Broth
3 tbsp Chili Powder
1 tbsp Cumi
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Dried Oregano
1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, or to taste)
1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the 2 lbs ground beef, break it apart with a spoon, and cook until thoroughly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped yellow onion to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it
- Stir in the 3 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. If using, add the 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper now. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly
- Pour in the 28 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained), 15 oz can tomato sauce, and 2 cups beef broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Next, add the rinsed and drained 15 oz can kidney beans and 15 oz can pinto beans
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. For the best flavor, aim for a simmer of 2-3 hours; the longer it simmers, the more the flavors deepen and meld
- After simmering, taste the chili. Adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired
- Ladle the hot chili into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy your incredible homemade meal!
Notes
Don't skip draining the excess fat after browning the ground beef to ensure a cleaner, richer flavor profile.
Blooming your spices by cooking them directly in the pot with onions and garlic for a minute or two before adding liquids is a game-changer for enhancing their flavor.
When adding liquids, use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pot; these contain concentrated flavor and add incredible depth.
While 1 hour works, this chili truly benefits from a longer simmer of 2-3 hours on low heat, covered, allowing flavors to meld, deepen, and the chili to thicken beautifully.
Always taste your chili at the end of cooking and adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels to your personal preference.
Using fresh, good quality onions and garlic makes a noticeable difference in the overall taste.
Consider adding a dash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving to brighten all the flavors.
Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Chili freezes exceptionally well in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hours 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
