Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’ll warm you from the inside out? Look no further! This Over the Top Chili recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s packed with rich, savory goodness, and it's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will have you creating delicious dishes in no time. Get ready to experience chili like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 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 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This ensures even browning of the vegetables and meat.
Building the flavor base: Add the chopped onion and green bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Adding the meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for a chili that’s not too greasy.
Simmering the chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking to perfection: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. This is the key to a truly delicious chili!
Serving suggestions: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, creamy avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and crunchy tortilla chips are all excellent additions.
Tips for Chili Success:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with spices! Adjust the amounts of chili powder and other spices to your liking.
- For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot while it's simmering.
- Make it ahead! Chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for healthy meals.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms or crumbled vegetarian crumbles for a hearty vegetarian option.
- White Chili: Use white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans) instead of the kidney, pinto, and black beans. You can also add corn for a southwestern twist.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities used. Generally, this recipe is a good source of protein and fiber.
This Over the Top Chili recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to customize to your preferences. Enjoy!