Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is perfect for gatherings and will warm hearts and bellies alike!
This chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a game day or a family gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings
- Packed with flavor and spice that can be adjusted to your taste
- Easily scalable to feed a large group
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is your go-to choice. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest guests, making it an ideal dish for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it in advance, allowing you to enjoy the company of your friends and family without spending all your time in the kitchen.
Chili is not only delicious but also a versatile dish. You can customize the spice levels to suit your crowd, making it a hit with both the spice lovers and the milder palate. This adaptability means you can serve a large group without worrying about taste preferences, ensuring everyone leaves happy and full.
Easy to Make and Serve
One of the standout features of this chili recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. The cooking process is straightforward, involving just one pot, which minimizes cleanup—always a plus when cooking for a crowd!
Additionally, chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a practical choice for busy hosts. Simply reheat and serve with your favorite toppings, like cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs. This flexibility allows you to focus on other aspects of your gathering while still serving a warm, delicious meal.
Customizable and Flavorful
This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, meats, or vegetables based on your guests' preferences. You can even make a vegetarian version by swapping out the meat for additional beans or lentils, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy a hearty bowl.
Moreover, the flavor profile can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños. For those who enjoy a milder flavor, reducing the spices will still yield a delicious and comforting chili. This adaptability makes this recipe truly special.
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!
Instructions
Brown the Meat
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Ingredients
Stir in the bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well before adding the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve
Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your homemade chili!
Tips for Perfect Chili
To achieve the best flavor, consider using a variety of beans and fresh vegetables. Adding corn or zucchini can enhance the texture and nutritional value of your chili. Don’t skip the simmering step; allowing the chili to cook low and slow melds the flavors beautifully.
For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a hint of dark chocolate to your chili. These ingredients can elevate the taste profile and surprise your guests with an unexpected richness.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your chili, the options are endless! Set up a chili bar with various toppings such as shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. This allows your guests to customize their bowls to their liking and adds an interactive element to your meal.
Pair your chili with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. A simple side salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty chili, rounding out your gathering perfectly.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Chili also freezes well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the chili thickens upon cooling, add a splash of broth or water during reheating to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the meat with a mix of lentils and more beans.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
→ Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What toppings go well with chili?
Try shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, or avocado.
Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe
This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is perfect for gatherings and will warm hearts and bellies alike!
Created by: Gwendolyn Reed
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chili
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well before adding the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 21g