Name: First Place Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended); 1 large Onion, chopped; 2 Green Bell Peppers, chopped; 2 Red Bell Peppers, chopped; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 2 (28 oz) cans Crushed Tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can Tomato Sauce; 1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15 oz) can Black Beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15 oz) can Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup Beef Broth; ¼ cup Chili Powder (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Ground Cumin; 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika; 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional); 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil; 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (optional); Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for garnish); Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (for garnish); Chopped Green Onions (for garnish); Jalapeño slices (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

As the autumn leaves fall and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to warm your home than with a pot of delicious chili bubbling away on the stove. The savory aroma of spices and fresh ingredients creates a cozy atmosphere, inviting friends and family to gather around. This First Place Chili Recipe is the perfect dish for any gathering, whether it’s a Sunday football game, a casual family dinner, or a festive fall get-together. Each spoonful is rich with flavor and heart, making it a go-to recipe for chilly days and nights.

Reasons to Adore This First Place Chili Recipe

This First Place Chili Recipe is more than just another chili on the block; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Loaded with savory ground beef, vibrant peppers, and a medley of beans, this chili captivates with every bite. The balance of spices brings depth, while the tomatoes provide a luscious richness that keeps you coming back for more.

Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

A diverse blend of flavors and textures
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
Customizable to suit any palate
Great with a variety of toppings to enhance the experience
Simple and straightforward cooking method

Ingredients You Will Need for This Chili

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your ingredients. Fresh, high-quality items can make a significant difference, and some swaps can tailor this dish to your taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and moisture)
1 large Onion, chopped
2 Green Bell Peppers, chopped
2 Red Bell Peppers, chopped
4 cloves Garlic, minced
2 (28 oz) cans Crushed Tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can Tomato Sauce
1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup Beef Broth
¼ cup Chili Powder (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons Ground Cumin
1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
1 tablespoon Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for garnish, optional)
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (for garnish, optional)
Chopped Green Onions (for garnish, optional)
Jalapeño slices (for garnish, optional, for extra heat lovers)

Step-by-Step Preparation of First Place Chili Recipe

Begin by prepping your vegetables. Chop the onion, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Having all your vegetables ready will make the cooking process smoother, ensuring consistent sizes for even cooking throughout the chili.
Heat the oil and brown the beef. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon while it cooks until it’s nicely browned. Proper browning is essential for a rich flavor, so aim for a good sear, and drain any excess grease afterward to keep your chili from becoming overly oily.
Sauté the vegetables. Once the beef is browned and drained, add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions turn translucent. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, enriching the overall flavor profile of the chili.
Add the spices. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. This step is known as "blooming the spices," crucial for maximizing their flavor through this initial heating.
Incorporate the tomatoes and beans. Pour the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with juices) into the pot. Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. The assortment of tomatoes and beans contributes a complex texture and flavor, while rinsing the beans helps reduce excess sodium.
Simmer to perfection. Pour in the beef broth and bring the chili to a simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or ideally 2-3 hours. The longer the chili simmers, the richer the flavors become. Stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent sticking. If you prefer a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes.
Taste and adjust the seasoning. After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as desired. You may wish to add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cayenne pepper for extra heat. This is also the moment to add the optional brown sugar if the chili’s acidity is too strong; it helps balance the flavors beautifully.
Garnish and serve. Ladle the chili into bowls and finish with your choice of toppings. Options like fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, and jalapeño slices will elevate your chili experience. These toppings add flavor, texture, and a vibrant finish to each bowl.

Prep ~ 20 minutes, Cook ~ 1 to 3 hours, Total ~ 1 hour 20 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes, Servings ~ 8, Kcal ~ approximately 450 per serving.

Preparing in Advance

For busy days, consider prep strategies that can save time. Chop all vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also brown the ground beef ahead of time, then refrigerate it for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply begin from the sautéing step onwards. Additionally, the chili can be made a day in advance. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover chili, you’ll want to store it properly for the best flavor and safety. Keep it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an excellent option; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally for even warmth. A tip to keep the chili fresh is to store any toppings separately to maintain their texture.

Perfect Pairings with First Place Chili Recipe

Wondering what to serve alongside this flavorful chili? Here are some wonderful options:

Cornbread – a sweet and buttery compliment that soaks up the chili
Rice – serves as a hearty base that can stretch the meal
Salads – a light, crunchy salad balances the richness of the chili
Tortilla chips – perfect for dipping and adds a delightful crunch
Beer or cider – a refreshing drink to complement the spices
Pickled jalapeños – add a zesty kick that enhances the dish

Flavor Twists You Can Make

Customize your chili to your liking with some of these variations:

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
Add carrots or zucchini for extra vegetable goodness that blends well with the flavors.
Experiment with different beans such as chickpeas or navy beans.
For a sweet twist, throw in some corn or use crushed pineapple as an unexpected addition.
Spice things up further with habanero or serrano peppers for a fiery kick.
If you love smoky flavors, try incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Consider using fire-roasted tomatoes for a unique flavor profile.
Top with avocado slices for creaminess and fresh contrast.

Cook’s Notes for Best Results

Achieving the perfect First Place Chili Recipe involves a few tips:

Brown the beef thoroughly for maximum flavor development.
Do not rush the sautéing of vegetables; take your time to enhance their sweetness.
Adjust seasoning gradually while tasting to get the exact flavor you desire.
Let the chili simmer longer if possible; it improves in flavor with time.
For an ideal thickness, balance simmering with covering and uncovering your pot.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can work beautifully for a lighter chili. Just be sure to season it well to enhance the flavors.
What if I don’t have all the spices? No problem! While spices enhance the chili, you can still create a flavorful dish with the essentials. Focus on chili powder, salt, and garlic if you have to simplify.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? Yes, just brown the beef and sauté the vegetables beforehand, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for wonderfully melded flavors.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too runny? To thicken, you can simmer it uncovered to reduce liquid, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Another option is to add more beans.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian? Certainly! Simply use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth, and you can also add more beans or lentils for heartiness.

Final Thoughts

This First Place Chili Recipe is a beloved dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its rich flavors and the ability to please a crowd, it’s a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you follow the recipe closely or make it your own with variations, the result will always be a delightful, hearty chili that everyone will enjoy. Gather your ingredients, don your apron, and prepare to make a pot that will leave everyone wanting seconds. Enjoy!

First Place Chili

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 140 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and flavorful chili loaded with ground beef, peppers, and beans, perfect for gatherings.

Instructions

Prep the vegetables: Chop the onion, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
Heat the oil and brown the beef: In a pot, heat the olive oil and brown the ground beef, breaking it up until nicely browned. Drain excess grease.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add the spices: Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Incorporate tomatoes and beans: Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and the rinsed beans. Stir to combine.
Simmer: Add beef broth, bring to simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 1-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasoning: After simmering, adjust salt, pepper, and optional brown sugar as needed.
Garnish and serve: Ladle into bowls and top with desired garnishes.