Are you ready to elevate your tailgate game? Forget bland hot dogs and lukewarm beer; this Boilermaker Chili is about to become your new go-to game day feast. This hearty, flavorful chili is perfect for sharing with friends and family while cheering on your favorite team. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and packs a punch of deliciousness that'll keep everyone coming back for more. Get ready for some seriously satisfying homemade cooking!
Ingredients: A Winning Lineup
This recipe serves 6-8 hungry fans. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your crowd!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork (for extra richness)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips
Game Day Gameplay: Step-by-Step Instructions
This chili is a simple recipe, even for busy weeknights, making it perfect for those quick dinner ideas you crave.
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Sizzle the Stars: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef and pork to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Bell Pepper Power: Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes until slightly softened.
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Spice it Up: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or longer for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes! This slow cooking is key for developing a delicious and healthy meal.
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Serve and Celebrate: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite fixings. Enjoy with friends, family, and maybe a cold beer – it's the perfect Boilermaker Chili tailgate recipe!
Pro-Tip Plays: Cooking Strategies for Success
- For a thicker chili: Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before simmering.
- Spice it your way: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. If you prefer a milder chili, omit it entirely.
- Meatless Monday Option: Easily make this a vegetarian chili by substituting the ground meats with 2 cups of cooked lentils or a vegetarian crumbles.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it a day or two in advance for an easy game day meal prep.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Boilermaker Chili is a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to exciting tailgate parties. It's a recipe guaranteed to become a favorite in your home, offering a balance of ease, flavor, and nutritional value – truly the best recipes blend these key elements. Remember to adapt the recipe to your preferences and enjoy the process of creating this tasty dish!