Are you craving a hearty, soul-warming dish that'll have everyone at the table begging for seconds? Look no further than this incredible "Day Before Chili" recipe that's about to become your new go-to comfort meal! Imagine a rich, flavor-packed chili that gets even more delicious when it sits overnight, allowing every single ingredient to mingle and create a taste explosion that'll make your mouth water. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family dinner, or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this chili is your ticket to culinary happiness!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed), 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, pepper, and shredded cheese for serving.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot with the onions and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces. Cook the beef for about 7-10 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once the beef is cooked, stir in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- After the chili has simmered, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preference.
- Once the chili is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. For the best flavor, it’s recommended to let the chili sit overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even further.
- When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chili on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Serve hot with shredded cheese on top for added flavor and richness.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade chili with your favorite sides, such as cornbread or tortilla chips!
Tips
- Brown the meat thoroughly: Taking the time to properly brown your ground beef ensures deep, rich flavor development.
- Let it rest overnight: This isn't just a suggestion—it's a game-changer! Letting the chili sit in the refrigerator allows the spices and ingredients to blend perfectly.
- Control your heat: Adjust the chili powder to match your spice tolerance. Start conservative and add more if needed.
- Use fresh spices: Ensure your chili powder and cumin are fresh for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Don't rush the simmer: Low and slow is the secret to tender meat and melded flavors.
- Optional toppings: Experiment with toppings like sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños to customize your chili experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
