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    Home » Recipes » Recipe Roundups

    Last Updated: Nov 16, 2023 by Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com · Leave a Comment

    Chili Recipes

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    Pin split image with text showing different varieties of chili to make.

    Chili recipes are a beloved staple in the world of comfort food because of their hearty and flavorful combination of ingredients! From classic, homemade beef chili to regional variations like Texas or Cincinnati chili, the term chili encompasses a wide range of recipes! Find the best of the best here!

    Most Popular Chili Recipes To Make

    Whether I'm craving the spicy warmth of classic chili con carne or the creamy richness of white chicken chili, a bowl of chili always hits the spot. Now that fall is in full swing; I thought it was the perfect time to share my top chili recipes for a delicious family meal!

    I always add a ton of ingredients to make a HUGE batch of chili to have endless leftovers and meals for days! Freeze half and save for later, too!

    Square split image showing different varieties of chili to make.
    Jump to:
    • Most Popular Chili Recipes To Make
    • 1. Cincinnati Chili
    • 2. Dutch Oven Chili
    • 3. Chili Con Carne
    • 4. Homemade Chili
    • 5. Texas Chili
    • 6. Venison Chili
    • 7. Prime Rib Chili
    • 8. Crockpot Chili
    • 9. Chili Mac
    • 10. Chili Dogs
    • 11. Chili Dog Casserole
    • 12. Short Rib Chili
    • 13. Ground Pork Chili
    • 14. White Chicken Chili
    • 15. Bison Chili
    • 💭 Tips For Making The Best Chili
    • 📖 Recipe Card
    • Best Chili Recipes (15+ Hearty & Delicious Chili Variations To Make Today!)
    • 💬 Reviews

    If you're looking for a chili recipe without chili powder, you can still make your favorite using one of these convenient chili powder substitutes! Check out what to serve with chili for my favorite side dish suggestions!

    1. Cincinnati Chili

    Cincinnati chili is a current obsession of mine. There's something so simple yet so genius in serving chili and cheese over a mound of spaghetti! Any time I'm craving comfort food, this chili is the first recipe to come to mind.

    Cincinnati Chili
    Cincinnati chili is a regional delicacy in the Midwest that you have to try because it is so uniquely flavorful! This copycat recipe is just like the version they make at Gold Star and Skyline restaurants and makes a wonderful hot dog chili! Or, you can do like the locals do and serve it over spaghetti!
    Check out this recipe
    Wide image of Cincinnati chili.

    2. Dutch Oven Chili

    Dutch oven chili is a hearty and flavorful chili reminiscent of rustic outdoor cooking. It has lots of fresh vegetables and beans, so there's a great variety of textures and flavors!

    Dutch Oven Chili
    This Dutch oven chili is hearty, delicious, and jam-packed with tons of bold flavors making it the ultimate comfort food! It's full of ground beef, fresh vegetables, beans, and homemade chili seasoning. Cook it low and slow on the stovetop or pop it into the oven for a simple and incredibly worthwhile dinner!
    Check out this recipe
    Wide image of Dutch oven chili in a bowl with grated cheddar cheese and sour cream on top.

    3. Chili Con Carne

    Chili Con Carne, or "chili with meat" in Spanish, consists of ground or diced beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of seasonings. My recipe has a slight kick, but you can always customize the heat level by adjusting the spicy ingredients to your taste!

    Chili Con Carne
    This chili con carne recipe is an easy way to cook up a hearty family dinner that is practically effortless but completely delicious! Ground beef, kidney beans, onions, and red bell peppers, are simmered low and slow on the stovetop until tender. It's comforting and filling, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!
    Check out this recipe
    Wide image of chili con carne.

    4. Homemade Chili

    If you're looking for a classic beef and bean chili, my homemade chili is a family recipe I've made too many times to count. You can even tweak the ingredients and/or seasonings to suit your tastes; this is a great base chili recipe to build on!

    Homemade Chili
    This homemade chili is so incredibly delicious and loaded with flavor that you will want to get rid of every other chili recipe you have! It is packed with beef, beans, vegetables, and a made-from-scratch seasoning blend that makes this dish truly special. Trust me, everyone who tastes this will be begging you for the recipe!
    Check out this recipe
    Easy homemade chili recipe served in maroon bowl with shredded cheddar cheese.

    5. Texas Chili

    Unlike most other chilis, Texas chili has absolutely no beans! This meat-centric chili has a robust flavor with a good amount of heat.

    Mellow it out with a scoop of sour cream, a generous helping of shredded cheese, and crackers!

    Texas Chili (without beans)
    Hearty Texas chili is a comforting meal that’s packed with lots of tender meat and spicy chiles and topped with all your favorites! This bean-less chili is super easy to prepare and makes the coziest dinner ever! Serve it with cheese, sour cream, and crackers for the most satisfying and delicious meal!
    Check out this recipe
    Wide overhead of the dished Texas chili in white bowl with shredded cheddar cheese.

    6. Venison Chili

    Whether you are a hunter or there is a hunter in your life, ground venison makes for some of the most delicious chili! It is simmered low and slow with a robust blend of herbs and spices, so the gamey flavor is a tasty hint and not overpowering!

    Venison Chili
    Easy to make ground venison chili is a tasty twist on classic chili! Perfectly seasoned venison blends with my homemade chili seasoning and hearty beans to make an amazing chili that your family will be talking about for weeks!
    Check out this recipe
    Closeup square image of the ground venison chili.

    7. Prime Rib Chili

    Chili is one of my favorite leftover prime rib recipes that I make with my holiday roasts! I've included stovetop instructions as well as the steps to making it in your oven, Instant Pot, or crockpot!

    Prime Rib Chili
    This easy to make Prime Rib Chili uses deliciously tender chunks of prime rib roast leftovers and my homemade chili seasoning mix! Add some sautéed onion and garlic, diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, and three types of beans for a wonderful leftover prime rib chili dinner!
    Check out this recipe
    large square overhead of prime rib chili served with rice in white bowl.

    8. Crockpot Chili

    Because the flavor of chili only gets better as it cooks, it is the perfect recipe to make in your slow cooker! This 3-bean crockpot chili is my go-to recipe for chilly weekdays because I can set it and forget it until dinnertime!

    Crock Pot Chili
    This crock pot chili makes a superb chili dinner so quick and easy, plus it leaves plenty for leftover meal plans! For this recipe, I use a blend of 3 different beans and generally just go with whatever canned beans I have on hand. With just a handful of ingredients and my simple chili seasoning blend, this chili practically makes itself!
    Check out this recipe
    Slow Cooker Three Bean and Beef Chili

    9. Chili Mac

    Combining chili with mac and cheese is a great way to repurpose your leftovers. Sometimes, I make the chili specifically for this pasta dish because my family loves it so much!

    Chili Mac
    This chili mac combines hearty and bold homemade chili with comforting and delicious macaroni and cheese for a truly crowd-pleasing meal! Simply prepare the chili, layer it with cheese and cooked pasta, and then pop it into the oven! You can have it ready to eat in 30 minutes, or let the chili simmer for a few hours to get the ultimate flavor experience!
    Check out this recipe
    Wide image of chili mac in a bowl.

    10. Chili Dogs

    A few times a year, I get a huge craving for chili dogs, and they never disappoint! Cook up a few of your favorite hot dogs (I like all beef hotdogs), put them in buns, and ladle some chili right over the top!

    Learn about the best chili for making chili dogs on my other page!

    Chili Dogs
    These chili dogs are an American classic featuring toasted buns and grilled hot dogs that are smothered with bold, delicious chili! Grab some shredded cheese and get ready to kick back and enjoy! You'll want to serve them at your next backyard cookout for a meal that everyone will be talking about!
    Check out this recipe
    Wide image of chili dogs.

    11. Chili Dog Casserole

    This kid-favorite recipe has all the components of classic chili dogs but in an easy-to-make casserole! You only need 4 ingredients: hot dogs, chili, crescent rolls, and lots of cheese!

    Chili Dog Casserole
    This chili dog casserole is a simple, weeknight dinner that combines buttery crescent rolls with beefy hot dogs, hearty chili, and cheese! It only needs 4 ingredients and is on the table and ready to eat in about 30 minutes! It's tasty, budget-friendly, and oh-so-good.
    Check out this recipe
    Wide close up image of chili dog casserole.

    >>>>See all of my recipes HERE<<<<

    12. Short Rib Chili

    Succulent and tender short ribs can be slowly braised to create a rich and meaty chili masterpiece! The result is a chili with a depth of flavor that's truly extraordinary!

    Short Rib Chili
    Justin Chapple’s thick, meaty Short Rib Chili gets layers of heat from fresh jalapeños, smoky chipotles in adobo, and fruity ancho chile powder.
    Check out this recipe
    Short Rib Chili

    13. Ground Pork Chili

    Ground pork chili offers a tasty twist from the usual beef, chicken, or turkey chilis. Pork has a savory and subtly sweet flavor that makes for some of the most delicious chili you'll ever try (really, you might never go back to beef)!

    Ground Pork Chili
    This ground pork chili recipe will be your new favorite chili recipe! It is so full of delicious flavor. You are going to adore it!
    Check out this recipe
    Ground Pork Chili

    14. White Chicken Chili

    Chicken chili is a lighter alternative to traditional red beef chili. It's milder and creamier, yet still has that hearty comfort food feel that I crave from a good bowl of chili!

    White Chicken Chili (BEST EVER!) - Cooking Classy
    Flavorful White Chicken Chili made with hearty beans, tender chicken, and a rich and creamy broth. It’s easy and protein-packed—a must try!
    Check out this recipe
    White Chicken Chili (BEST EVER!) - Cooking Classy

    15. Bison Chili

    Bison chili is a healthier and slightly gamey twist on the classic chili recipe, and it's become one of my personal favorites. Lean and rich in flavor, ground bison meat adds a unique depth to the chili that will have you savoring every bite!

    Bison Chili Recipe - Tasting Table
    If you’re looking for ways to get creative with chili, this cinnamon- and spicy chile-infused bison chili will definitely do the trick!
    Check out this recipe
    Bison Chili Recipe - Tasting Table

    💭 Tips For Making The Best Chili

    Making the best chili requires good ingredients, proper techniques, and some personal touches to suit your taste. Here are some tips to help you create delicious chili:

    1. Quality ingredients: High-quality lean ground meat is a good choice to minimize excess fat. Use fresh vegetables and herbs when possible.
    2. Properly prepare your ingredients: Brown the meat before adding it to the pot to enhance the flavor. Sauté the onions and garlic until they're softened and aromatic. Roast fresh chili peppers to bring out their flavor before adding them to the chili.
    3. Slow cooking: Cook your chili low and slow. Simmer it for at least an hour, or even longer, to allow the flavors to meld together.
    4. Beans: While some people prefer chili without beans, others like beans for texture and added protein. See the best beans for chili here! *Rinse canned beans to remove excess salt and starch.
    5. Make it ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day. Make it in advance and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

    Now that I've covered so many tasty chili recipes, it's time to find your favorite! Are you team beans or no beans? Let me know in the comments below!

    Do you love a recipe you tried? Please leave a 5-star 🌟rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page.
    Stay in touch with me through social media @ Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! Subscribe to the newsletter today (no spam, I promise)! Don't forget to tag me when you try one of my recipes!

    📖 Recipe Card

    Wide split image showing different varieties of chili to make.
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    5 from 1 review

    Best Chili Recipes (15+ Hearty & Delicious Chili Variations To Make Today!)

    Chili recipes are a beloved staple in the world of comfort food because of their hearty and flavorful combination of ingredients! From classic homemade beef chili to regional variations like Texas or Cincinnati chili, the term chili encompasses a wide range of recipes! Find the best of the best here!
    Author | Angela
    Servings: 6 servings
    Calories: 247kcal
    Prep 10 minutes minutes
    Cooking 2 hours hours
    Total Time 2 hours hours 10 minutes minutes
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    Ingredients
     

    • 2 cups water
    • 1¼ lb lean ground beef
    • 1 large white onion (diced - or use yellow onion, reserve some for serving)
    • 8 oz tomato sauce
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • 2 teaspoon garlic (minced)
    • 2 tablespoon chili powder
    • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ½ teaspoon sugar
    • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
    • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
    • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
    • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
    • ½ oz unsweetened baking chocolate (about ¼ of a square of chocolate)
    • 1 whole bay leaf
    Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

    Instructions

    • Add the 2 cups water and 1¼ lb lean ground beef to a large pot. Break up the beef as much as possible and bring to a boil.
      2 cups water, 1¼ lb lean ground beef
    • Slowly boil until the meat is cooked through and tender (about 30 minutes), breaking it up into a fine texture as it cooks. Skim any fat off the top and discard.
    • Add 1 large white onion, 8 oz tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoon garlic, 2 tablespoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon sugar, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ oz unsweetened baking chocolate, and 1 whole bay leaf. Stir to combine.
      1 large white onion, 8 oz tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoon garlic, 2 tablespoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon sugar, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ oz unsweetened baking chocolate, 1 whole bay leaf
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally.
    • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve over hot dogs or thin spaghetti noodles if desired.

    Equipment You May Need

    Measuring Cups
    Measuring Spoons
    Chef's Knife
    Cutting Board
    Stockpot (6 quart)
    Silicone Spatula Set

    Notes

    • There is an official 'guide' for how Skyline Chili serves its Cincinnati chili. 2-way is just spaghetti topped with chili. 3-way is spaghetti and chili topped with cheddar cheese. 4-way is spaghetti, chili, cheese, and beans OR onions. Lastly, 5-way is spaghetti, chili, cheese, beans, and onions! Oyster crackers are an additional fave topping.
    • Add a splash or two of water as needed, or remove the chili from the heat once it has thickened.
    • Cincinnati chili is not watery like soup or thick like traditional chili. Instead, it should be a consistency similar to ground beef pasta sauce like bolognese.
    • If desired, an immersion blender or potato masher can be used to get the chili to a super fine and 'soft' consistency.
    • Cincinnati chili tastes even better the next day! For the best flavor, let it cool and refrigerate overnight. Then, reheat and serve!
    • To store: Let the chili cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
    • To freeze: Once the chili has cooled, transfer it to a heavy-duty freezer bag and flash-freeze it flat on a baking sheet for easy storage. Thaw frozen chili in the fridge overnight and enjoy it within 6 months.
    • To reheat: Add leftover chili to a large pot over medium-low heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 247kcal (12%) | Carbohydrates: 8g (3%) | Protein: 19g (38%) | Fat: 16g (25%) | Saturated Fat: 6g (38%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 64mg (21%) | Sodium: 486mg (21%) | Potassium: 514mg (15%) | Fiber: 3g (13%) | Sugar: 3g (3%) | Vitamin A: 1003IU (20%) | Vitamin C: 5mg (6%) | Calcium: 47mg (5%) | Iron: 4mg (22%)
    Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!
    best chili recipes, best chili recipes with beans, best no bean chili recipes, Cincinnati Chili, comfort food recipes, ground beef recipes, Hot Dog Chili, how to make the best chili, No Bean Chili
    Course Beef Dishes, Copycat Recipes, Dinner Recipes, Soup Recipes
    Cuisine American, Midwestern
    author profile photo
    Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com

    Angela is an at home chef that developed a passion for all things cooking and baking at a young age in her Grandma's kitchen. After many years in the food service industry, she now enjoys sharing all of her family favorite recipes and creating tasty dinner and amazing dessert recipes here at Bake It With Love!

    bakeitwithlove.com/about/

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    Author bio photo with cake.

    Hi there, I'm Angela! I am an avid vintage cookbook collector, cook, baker, and total foodie. I love sharing new, fun, creative recipes and great classic recipes just like my Grandma used to make! Every recipe on BIWL is tested to ensure that cooks of any experience level can succeed.

    Welcome to Bake It With Love. Enjoy!

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