The Best Homemade Chili

Hearty, bold, and bursting with flavor, this is The Best Homemade Chili recipe you’ll ever need. Made with smoky bacon, colorful bell peppers, a robust blend of spices, and tender ground beef, this chili is everything a comforting bowl should be—rich, meaty, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for game day, chilly evenings, or any time you’re craving something warm and satisfying, this crowd-pleaser doesn’t cut corners.

One of the secrets? Beer. Yep, adding a bottle of light beer deepens the flavor and creates a rich, slow-cooked taste without hours on the stove. And if you loved our Texas Cowboy Beans, think of this as their spicier, chunkier cousin. Grab your biggest pot—it’s chili time, and you’re about to wow some taste buds.

What is The Best Homemade Chili?

So what makes this chili the best? It’s not just the ingredients—it’s the layers of flavor built slowly, from crispy bacon to aromatic spices and a splash of beer. Chili has been a staple in American kitchens for decades, with every family adding their twist. This version? It’s a delicious blend of Southwest flair and hearty comfort food. And while it might not have won an official chili cook-off (yet), we guarantee your family will crown it a winner. As the saying goes, “The way to someone’s heart is through a simmering pot of chili.” Ready to fire up the stove?

Why You’ll Love This:

This isn’t just any chili—it’s one that brings serious flavor to the table. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back for more:

• Big flavor, simple process: With bacon, chipotle powder, and beer, this chili packs a smoky, spicy punch without complicated steps.

• Budget-friendly, hearty, and filling: This makes a big pot, perfect for feeding a crowd or storing leftovers for days of meals.

• Customizable ingredients: Use your favorite beans, kick up the spice, or mellow it out for the kids—it’s easy to make it your own.

If you’re a fan of our Sweet and Spicy BBQ Meatballs, this chili brings the same addictive balance of savory heat and richness. Once you try it, it’ll be your go-to cold-weather comfort food.

How to Make The Best Homemade Chili

Quick Overview

This chili takes about two hours from start to finish, but most of that time is hands-off simmering. The key is in building flavor at every step—from crisping the bacon to blooming the spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that fills your home with incredible smells and your belly with satisfaction.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound bacon, cut into small pieces

• 1 large onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced

• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 4.5 tablespoons chili powder

• 1.5 tablespoons ground cumin

• 1.5 tablespoons paprika

• 0.5 to 1.5 tablespoons chipotle powder (adjust to spice preference)

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne powder (optional, for extra heat)

• 3 pounds ground beef

• 1 bottle (12 oz) light beer (such as Coors Light)

• 1 (14 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (14 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (24 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (24 oz) can diced tomatoes

Step-by-Step:

1. Cook the bacon:
   In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden.

2. Add the vegetables:
   Stir in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add garlic and spices:
   Toss in the minced garlic, then sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, chipotle powder, oregano, salt, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Brown the beef:
   Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns.

5. Deglaze with beer:
   Pour in the beer and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds major flavor!

6. Add beans and tomatoes:
   Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes. Mix everything well.

7. Simmer:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours. Stir every 10-15 minutes during the first hour, then every 5-10 minutes in the last 30 minutes. Add a little water if needed to loosen the consistency.

8. Taste and adjust:
   Give it a final taste and add salt or spice as needed. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

What to Serve The Best Homemade Chili With:

Chili is a meal in itself, but the right pairings can make it truly special:

• Cornbread or garlic bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that savory goodness

• Rice or baked potatoes: Great bases to turn chili into a hearty meal

• Toppings bar: Set out sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, green onions, or avocado for custom bowls

• Cold beer or sweet tea: The ultimate Southern chili companions

It’s also amazing ladled over nachos or stuffed into bread bowls for a fun twist.

Top Tips for Perfecting The Best Homemade Chili:

• Don’t skip the bacon: It adds a smoky, salty depth that sets this chili apart.

• Let the spices bloom: Cooking them briefly before adding liquids enhances their flavor.

• Simmer slowly: The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor gets—don’t rush it.

• Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld.

• Double it for the freezer: This recipe freezes beautifully for future quick meals.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in individual portions or large containers for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Pro tip: It’s perfect for meal prepping and always tastes even better the next day!

FAQs

Can I make it less spicy?
Yes! Just reduce or skip the chipotle and cayenne powders for a milder version.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Definitely—just note it’ll be a bit leaner, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil for richness.

What kind of beer works best?
A light lager like Coors Light or Budweiser is great. Avoid anything too hoppy or bitter.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Sure! Brown the bacon and beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Conclusion

This truly is The Best Homemade Chili—a robust, meaty, spicy-sweet dish that warms your soul and satisfies your hunger. With layers of smoky bacon, rich spices, and tender beef, every bite is a reminder that comfort food can be bold and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy dinner, this chili delivers every time. Make it once, and it’ll be a staple in your kitchen forever.