World’s Best Chili (aka Bill’s Chili)

4.8 from 105 votes
โ€ข170 comments
A red circle with the letters FFA red circle with the letters GF

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You’ve just discovered the world’s best chili ever! It’s a mouthwatering and hearty Homemade Beef Chili Recipe with stew meat and ground beef, plus bacon, beans, and just the right blend of spices. But you have to don’t take my word for it.

This recipe has been pinned over 140,000 times, has tons of 5-Star ratings, and the video has been viewed on Facebook over 4 million times. It is even award-winning at several chili cook-offs. Let it simmer on the stovetop, then get ready to enjoy a bowl with all of your favorite toppings and fixings.

white bowl of beef chili with beans topped with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream

Why You’ll Love This Beef Chili Recipe

  • Cuisine Inspiration: American
  • Primary Cooking Method: Stovetop
  • Dietary Info: Gluten-free, Dairy-free
  • Skill Level: Easy

I used to belong to a recipe group on Facebook simply called, “What’s for Dinner?” Every day, someone would start a thread and everyone would say what they were having for dinner. It inspired lots of ideas and even camaraderie when all one of us could muster was a bowl of cereal. But one of the most common responses was “Bill’s Chili”. This recipe made its way around the group, and I needed to try it.

Ever since I first made it all those years ago, I knew I would be making this amazing beef and bean chili for the rest of my life. It is so good! In our house, we call it “the world’s best chili,” and I really believe it is.

Luckily, the person who first shared Bill’s Chili (I’ll be honest, I still have no idea who Bill is), allowed me to share it with all of you! I’ve never made any significant changes to the recipe, but I’ve cooked it so many times that I’ve learned some tips and tricks along the way that I’ve added for you. Okay, okay so what makes this beef chili recipe just SO spectacular? Let me tell you a few reasons…

  • Easy with incredible flavor: This recipe is so much more than just a basic chili. It is simple, yet hearty. By letting the ingredients cook together as long as possible, all of the flavors develop and blend together. Each ingredient adds something to the overall flavor and texture that really makes it the World’s Best.
  • Uses ground beef, stew meat, and bacon: There is always the debate of whether you use just ground beef, just stew beef cubes, or a combination of both. This recipe uses both to get the depth of flavor and the different textures. Plus there is bacon for salty, smoky goodness.
  • Includes beans, but they are optional: The bigger debate with chili is beans or no beans. This is chili with beans, but leave them out or swap kidney beans for black beans, if you like. Itโ€™ll still be delicious. The beans are definitely an inexpensive option to be able to feed more people with this one recipe.
  • Makes enough chili for days: This recipe makes a ton. Whether you are having leftovers the next day or pulling the extra chili out of the freezer, it reheats well, and in fact, might taste even better the second time around.
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This is by far the best chili ever!!! Iโ€™ve made it several times already and everyone thatโ€™s had it says how incredible it is. -Agostino

Iโ€™ve made it so many times! Never disappoints! – Kristina

After reading all of the fabulous reviews, my husband and I made this for a Halloween party/Chili cook off. We added a tiny bit of Cholula hot sauce for some extra heat. We won 1st place out of 14! Thanks for sharing this award winning recipe! – Kelly

My go to chili since the 1990s was a recipe from Bon Apetit magazine. One day last year I ran across this recipe. Iโ€™ve not made the Bon Appetit recipe since. I love this chili recipe. In fact itโ€™s simmering on my stove right now. Thanks for the great recipe! – Gail

Looking for another comforting beef recipe? Try my easy beef stew recipe too!

an orange stockpot filled with beef chili and a scoop being picked up with a ladle

Chili Ingredients

I wouldn’t say there is one secret ingredient. Each one truly adds something to this chili, so I don’t think you should leave anything out. It seems like a long list, but the ingredients fall into four basic categories that are essential to developing the flavors. See the recipe card below for the full quantities.

  • Meat – This recipe uses both ground beef and cubes of stew meat. Plus there is bacon for that salty, smoky goodness.
  • Vegetables and aromaticsOnion, red bell pepper, and garlic are sauteed with the meat to add layers of flavor. Canned chopped green chiles give it a bit of heat, and the saucy stew base is a mixture of canned whole tomatoes and tomato paste.
  • Herbs and spices – The (no longer) secret blend of spices includes chili powder, dried mustard, crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Beans (or no beans?) – This beef chili has kidney beans. You can always leave them out or swap them for black beans or pinto beans. However, adding beans is a budget-friendly option to be able to feed more people with this one recipe. But for a great low carb option, try a no bean chili (this one cooks on the stove or in the Instant Pot).
Ingredients to make The Worldโ€™s Best Chili Recipe (aka Billโ€™s Chili).

How to Make the Best Chili Ever

While the cooking time seems long, it’s only because you want to let it simmer for a while so the flavors can fully develop. The time you actually spend at the stove really isn’t that long. All the details are in the recipe card, but here’s the overview.

  • Cook the meat and vegetables: Heat a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add all of the meats, along with the pepper and onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the veggies are tender. Drain and grease, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add the seasonings: Sprinkle the chili powder, dried mustard, crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over the top and give everything another stir.
wooden spoon being used to stir browned ground beef, stew meat, and bacon with various herbs and spices on top
  • Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the canned tomatoes (do not drain them), tomato paste, kidney beans (after they have been drained and rinsed), and about two cups of water. Bring it to a simmer.
  • Let it simmer on the stove: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding more water, as needed, to achieve your desired consistency
ladle picking up a scoop of beef chili from an enameled cast iron Dutch oven

Tips for Success

The wonderful thing about this beef chili recipe is that it’s very flexible and forgiving.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind, as well as ways to customize it.
  • Use the right pot: When letting something simmer for a long time, you really want a heavy-bottomed pot, such as an enameled cast iron stock pot or large Dutch oven. This will ensure it heates evenly but doesn’t scorch.
  • Control the spiciness: If you don’t want it too spicy, use less chili powder. But if you love the heat, you can add more, try some cayenne pepper, or toss in chopped jalapenos when you cook the onions and peppers with the meat.
  • Simmer in a crockpot: If you don’t want to worry about tending to it on the stove, transfer to a crockpot for the simmering time. But use about half the water to start, and add more if needed. You can also make it ahead and just keep it warm in a crockpot for a party or as one of your favorite potluck dishes. It tastes even better reheated the next day! You will need at least a 6 quart slow cooker.
  • Cook longer: 2 hours is the minimum amount of time I’d recommend for simmering this chili. However, the longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will meld together. Just keep an eye on the water level and add more as needed.
ladle filling a white square-shaped bowl with beef chili with bowls of toppings behind it

Topping Ideas

Wondering what toppings to add to your homemade chili? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Shredded cheddar cheese. Or choose your favorite cheese.
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt. Helps balance out the spice.
  • Chopped raw onion. You can also use sliced green onions or scallions if you like a little bite.
  • Sliced avocado. Or try my favorite avocado crema. Either one adds a nice richness.
  • Crushed tortilla chips. Buy a bag or make your own Air Fryer Tortilla Chips.

Can You Make This Beef Chili Recipe Ahead?

This ground beef chili recipe makes a lot. So you can definitely make it ahead to feed a crowd at a party, or heat up your leftovers the next day. In fact, it tastes better the second time around.

Or transfer it all to a crockpot (make sure you get a large one, like this 6-quart slow cooker) after it is cooked just to keep it warm or to reheat it. This is especially helpful for a party. If you allow it to simmer in the slow cooker, I’d recommend starting with about half the water and add more if needed.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

  • Fridge. Let your chili cool and then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer. To freeze your beef chili, allow it to cool completely then transfer to an airtight container or freezer ziploc bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge.
  • Reheat in the microwave. To reheat, place the chili in a bowl and cover it with another plate. Heat for a few minutes until warmed. I recommend pausing the microwave halfway through to give the chili a stir and make sure the food in the middle of the bowl gets warm too.
  • Reheat on the stovetop. You can also reheat this chili on the stovetop. To do this, ladle the desired amount into a pot and heat over medium-low until warmed through. You may want to add a splash more water, if it has thickened.
spoon in a bowl of chili causing it to drip over the side onto the blue cloth napkins with white flowers on it

Make it a Meal

Wondering what to serve with your bowl of homemade chili? These easy ideas will make a super satisfying meal!

More Chili Recipes To Try

Don’t have time or need quite this much?

white bowl of beef chili with beans topped with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream
4.8 from 105 votes

The World’s Best Beef Chili Recipe

You've just discovered the World's Best Chili recipe. It's a mouthwatering beef chili with stew meat, ground beef, bacon, beans, and just the right blend of spices. Let it simmer on the stovetop, then get ready to enjoy a bowl with all of your favorite toppings and fixings.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 2 hours 20 minutes
Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 pound stew beef, cut into about one inch chunks
  • 1/4 pound bacon, diced in small pieces
  • 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced (or 1 Tablespoon chopped garlic from a jar)
  • 2 Tablespoons chili powder, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried mustard
  • 1/2 Tablespoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoons cumin
  • 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4.5 oz chopped green chilies
  • 28 oz whole canned tomatoes (I used Tuttorosso Peeled Plum Tomatoes)
  • 12 oz Tomato Paste (I used two 6 oz cans Tuttorosso Tomato Paste)
  • 48 oz canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups water (use more or less, as needed)

Optional Toppings:

  • shredded cheese
  • sour cream
  • diced onion
  • tortilla chips

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, stew meat, bacon, pepper, and onion, and cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any collected grease and liquid, if desired.
  • Add the garlic and cook for another minute or two.
  • Stir in the chili powder, dried mustard, crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the chilies, tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and about two cups of water, and simmer on low for at least 2 hours, or put into a crockpot on low for at least 4 hours. Add additional water, as needed to achieve desired consistency.
  • Serve with desired optional toppings.

Notes

This chili freezes well, or can be made the day before and reheated.
Nutrition Facts
The World's Best Beef Chili Recipe
Amount Per Serving (1 g)
Calories 420 Calories from Fat 99
% Daily Value*
Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 82mg27%
Sodium 895mg37%
Potassium 1384mg40%
Carbohydrates 40g13%
Fiber 12g48%
Sugar 8g9%
Protein 40g80%
Vitamin A 1280IU26%
Vitamin C 23.9mg29%
Calcium 98mg10%
Iron 8.8mg49%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Disclaimers: Please discuss your individual dietary needs (i.e. gluten free) with a physician. Even when not specified, be sure to verify all ingredients are gluten free, if needed, by reading labels on all packaging and/or confirming with the manufacturer this varies by brand and can change at any time. Nutrition information shown is an estimate and not guaranteed to be accurate.

Categories:

  • Lasagna is always a family favorite, and this one is the best.
  • Shepherd’s Pie or Cottage Pie, whatever you call it, it’s delicious.
  • Beefaroni also has a million different names, but it’s a family favorite ready in a flash.
  • Beef Egg Roll Bowl is a one-pan dinner ready in less than 20 minutes.
170 Comments
  1. Lynn

    This was definetly worth the time. It was delicious! Everybody loved it! After I cooked in skillet I did throw it in crockpot on low 4 hrs. Perfect for working moms!

  2. Agostino Chiaramonte

    5 stars
    This is by far the best chili ever!!! I’ve made it several times already and everyone that’s had it says how incredible it is. The only substitution I made was instead of the whole peeled tomatoes, I used 3-4 cans of Hunts fire roasted tomatoes and 2 jars of Rodolfi tomato puree, it added a whole other dimension to this already incredible recipe.

  3. Kristin

    4 stars
    Need to cook the bacon alone to get it crispy first. Donโ€™t use stew meat, use some nice lean steak for better quality

  4. AJ

    5 stars
    I love this recipe, I do tweak it a little bit and itโ€™s still so dang good. First off I typically double the recipe because it doesnโ€™t last more than a day.

    I add:

    A couple Jalapeรฑos
    A couple Serrano peppers
    1 poblano pepper

    I donโ€™t like whole tomatoes so I get san marzano crushed..

    I also deglaze the pan after the veggies and meat are brown with a nice beer.

    Lastly, I add a generous amount of hot sauce, and a few generous scoops of brown sugar.

    Love the sweet heat as well as how rich this turns out.

  5. Roger

    5 stars
    best ever, can regulate thickness you prefer by how much water added. Great chili . will feed several, or freeze for later. I use a little more garlic than called for!!!

  6. Ashley

    Making this as we speak ๐Ÿ™‚ just curious, i added the tomatoes whole. Will they become smaller as it cooks? Iโ€™ve never made Chile with tomatoes this big so just curious. Followed the directions to a T ๐Ÿ™‚ canโ€™t wait to try!!!

  7. Fae

    5 stars
    Made this last night. Only changes was I didn’t use water I used an IPA beer and some beef broth and used 3 smaller cans of beans (Bushs spicy, pinto and black chili beans).

    Easy and fantastic!

  8. Kelly

    5 stars
    After reading all of the fabulous reviews, my husband and I made this for a Halloween party/Chili cook off. We added a tiny bit of Cholula hot sauce for some extra heat. We won 1st place out of 14! Thanks for sharing this award winning recipe!

  9. Allen Abrams

    I going to try this tonight. I think I’m going to sub out the stew beef for short ribs. I’ll let you know how it goes! Thanks for the recipe, it looks delicious!

  10. Eva Francis

    Ive heard of putting peanut butter and unsweetened chocolate. im going to try this one. I’ll let you know.

  11. Debbie

    Iโ€™m so excited to try this recipe. Could you use diced canned tomatoes instead of whole? Do the whole tomatoes break apart or stay whole?

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Hi Amanda,
      The recipe makes enough for 12 people, with each serving being about 1 cup of chili.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the chili, Katie. Thank you for your comment and for rating the recipe!

  12. Kaytee

    5 stars
    Wonderful chili! This will be my go to! My husband loved this chili I dont think he ever stopped raving about it. Also I went into labor the night I made it…

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Kaytee, I am thrilled to hear that the chili recipe was loved, but your baby news is the best news of all! Congratulations!

  13. Gail

    5 stars
    My go to chili since the 1990s was a recipe from Bon Apetite magazine. One day last year I ran across this recipe. Iโ€™ve not made the Bon Apetite recipe since. I love this chili recipe. In fact itโ€™s simmering on my stove right now. Thanks for the great recipe!

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I am so glad you’re enjoying the recipe and I’m humbled that it beats out a great source like Bon Appetit. Thank you so much for your comment and rating!

    2. Kaytee

      5 stars
      Just made this chili again. This time no chance of going into labor. House smells delicious. I no longer enjoy going to bonfires that have other people’s chili. This is the best!

  14. Ken Mosher

    5 stars
    I just wanted to thank you for this recipe; I entered a cook-off hosted by a friend tonight, using this recipe as a base (I doubled the bacon, added more/hotter peppers, more garlic, peanut butter, and used beer instead of water) … it was a HUGE success: I got nothing but compliments from everyone who tried it, and I ended up winning “#1 Judge’s Choice” out of the 13 entries!

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m so happy to hear that everyone enjoyed the chili, Ken. Congratulations on winning the cook-off!

  15. Michael Meyer

    5 stars
    What a great recipe! I just made it for a neighborhood chili competition, and I won! I followed the recipe almost exactly, except I cut the stew beef (chuck) into slightly smaller pieces than 1โ€ I used only 1 tsp of crushed red pepper, and I added 1 tsp smoked paprika, 2 T brown sugar, and 2 T molasses. I was careful to remove all of the liquid and grease after browning the meat and vegetables, which separated my chili from the others in the competition, several of which were greasy and soupy. I simmered the chili for 2-1/2 hours, which softened the beef nicely. 2 cups of water were enough. I will make this recipe again and again.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m so glad you liked the recipe, Michael. Congratulations on winning the chili cook-off!

  16. Sherri

    5 stars
    This is the second time I’ve made this recipe , my new favorite chili ! Taking this to work for my coworkers to enjoy .

  17. Lynn Hults

    3 stars
    This chili was pretty good.I would not say this is the best chili in the world.But it was ok.I entered it in a small competition and the judges did not give it 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place.Also it did not get the favorite from the group of people that tried it.I guess i was disappointed about that.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m sorry to hear that the chili recipe didn’t win you any prizes, Lynn. I think chili is the type of dish that is great because it’s so versatile to adapt the flavors of, but the downside is that people have very specific tastes for the type they prefer.

    2. Bailey

      5 stars
      Itโ€™s funny since yours was the only review that didnโ€™t rave about it. Kind of a strange review. I thought it was delicious! Maybe it didnโ€™t come out just right. . .

  18. Vicky

    5 stars
    When I make chili, I call it โ€œclean out the fridgeโ€ chili! Never is the same twice and I never measure! Itโ€™s 100 degrees down here today and yup, I sat in there he air conditioning and made chili !!?? think Iโ€™m soon to be committed! All your ingredients are terrific. Iโ€™d use all of the ingredients that you mentioned but I always put Worcestershire sauce in my chili. Just seems to give it a great depth of flavor and body! Thanks for sharing ?

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Haha! Vicky, you sound like a truly passionate chili fan. ๐Ÿ˜€ Thanks for your great comment and for rating my recipe.

  19. Beth

    Might be a silly question but if I do this in the crockpot should I just add all ingredients at once? How long would you suggest cooking?

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Not a silly question at all, Beth! Before you add the ingredients to the crock pot, I suggest that you first brown the ground beef and at least sear the pieces of beef in some oil on the stove top, otherwise I’m afraid that the chili will be very greasy. After that, you can place all of the ingredients (except for the toppings) into a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours. Just long enough for the peppers and onions to soften up a bit and for the flavors of the chili to combine together.

  20. Lawrence M Chonoles

    I was looking for the video and could not find it. Also wanted to know if the 2 hr simmer was covered or uncovered?

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      The chili recipe video is embedded right into the middle of the blog post. The chili should simmer with the pot covered, but uncover and stir occasionally.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Hi Tracey!
      I’m happy to hear that you enjoyed the chili recipe. If your beef was a bit tough, next time, you can buy a leaner cut (something with less marbling) or tenderize your meat before you make the recipe.

  21. 5 stars
    Great recipe! Are you getting you chili from New Mexico, though? Real New Mexican chile makes all the difference in the world. I get mine from the CHIMAYO CHILE BROS.; here is a link to their site: http://www.chimayochilebros.com
    I always buy American chile, the stuff they import from Mexico, China and India, are just not as good ;-(

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      The good news is that you can always leave out the kidney beans if you don’t care for them! ๐Ÿ™‚

  22. Karen

    5 stars
    Billโ€™s Chili recipe is the best chili I have ever eaten! And the best news is I froze over half of it and thawed it out 3 months later for dinner one night. I cooked up a pound of thin spaghetti and topped it with the chili and plenty of grated Sardo cheese-SO WONDERFULโค๏ธ????????

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Oh my goodness, Karen, I am thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the chili recipe! Thank you so much for the great feedback.

  23. S. McFarland

    5 stars
    I fixed this last night and was loved by all! It was a little costly, but worth it! Thank you for sharing Bill’s recipe!!

  24. Shelley

    Hi came across your chili recipes and looks great I was wondering if I could make it in a crock pot as my stove in my apartment does not go low enough for me to cook on the stove Thanks in advance for your time

  25. Bettye Marks

    Made this for a large function and it was a hit. I love it. Will try it with venison next time for my kids. I personally do not eat Bambi. Thanks for sharing it.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the chili recipe, Bettye! I’m not much into venison either, but I hear that it tastes wonderful. ๐Ÿ˜‰

  26. Mike

    This was sounding a lot like one I make, with few exceptions. I use sirloin steak instead of stew beef. I also cook the full pound of bacon, not just a few strips. Using water is such a missed opportunity. I generally use coffee and beer to add liquid, but if I need more liquid I’ll add beef or chicken stock (or broth). If I need less liquid, I’ll throw in a cup of rice. Chili is easy to make taste good as long as you know your seasonings. Cumin is my jam. Lots of cumin. Also, season your meat when you cook it beforehand. I use Famous Dave’s steak and burger seasoning.

  27. Will be making this tomorrow for a Harvest Festival which includes a chili cook-off ๐Ÿ™‚ Can’t wait to try it and yes, I love the addition of bacon.

    Thanks for the recipe!

      1. I just had to write and say THANK YOU for such an amazing chili! I am happy to report that your chili recipe was the first-place winner of the cook-off. This will definitely be my “go-to” recipe for chili as the flavor is ever so delicious and the consistency is perfect. The only thing I “changed” was I used only two cans of beans rather than three ๐Ÿ™‚

        Thanks a million!

        1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

          Thank you for your wonderful review and congratulations on that win in the chili cook-off, Stephanie!

  28. Jenna

    I know everyone is mentioning this recipe makes a lot of chili… does this fit into a normal sized slow cooker?! ๐Ÿ™‚ I’m suuuuper excited to make this!

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Judy, I thought perhaps there was a typo in the recipe, but I looked at the recipe and it says 2lb of meat, which is 2 pounds.

  29. I’ve been meaning to get over here to look at Bill’s Chili since you mentioned it. I love the addition of bacon to pretty much everything! Delicious chili!

  30. Ruth Cobb

    I know that there is nitrate and nitrite free sandwich meats but how about badon. Nitrates and nitrites can cause migraines in some people. This really looks good. I might have to leave out the bacon though. darn

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Hi Ruth! Actually, there are several brands of nitrate free bacon. If you’re looking on the packages, it’s called “uncured bacon”. I hope you are able to find some!

  31. Paula

    I love chili! Just a quick question…you mentioned that Bill put honey in his chili! I’m definitely not a purist when it comes to chili, and honey sounds intriguing…how much did he put in? Many many thanks!

  32. Nina

    This was an awesome recipe. I did doctor it a little by using a dry red wine for part of the water. Im not a green chili fan, so used a can of rotelle instead. It was amazing. Thanks for sharing Bill!

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed Bill’s chili recipe, Nina! Using Rotel tomatoes is a great idea!

  33. Melinda

    Just exactly my recipe! And my Mom’s! I dont use three cans of beans…whew! Waaay too many beans for our chili but the rest is spot on! Sour cream, cheese, and dipperz!

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      I’m so happy to hear that you like the chili recipe, Melinda! Thanks for your comment. ๐Ÿ™‚

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Ann, for best results, I recommend cooking the chili on low heat in the slow cooker for 4 hours. I hope you enjoy it!

  34. Jack Madden

    I have tried so many recipes , over the years, looking for this flavor. The very best chili i have ever tasted . Really Five Star. Thank You!

  35. ROBERT

    Draining kidney beans. Brianna’s answer ~ If you use plain kidney beans you should drain them first.
    Robert’s question ~ I am assuming the kidney beans to be drained are caned in water?

    Brianne’s answer ~ Some people use beans in chili sauce which donโ€™t get drained first.
    Robert’s question ~ If the beans in chili sauce are not drained first, are they ever drained even partially?

    Brianne ~ Please excuse my questions I didn’t want to goof up your wonderful recipe which deserves to be followed as written.
    Thank you so much.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Hi Robert –
      I’m sorry for the confusion regarding the beans. You are correct. If someone is using traditional canned plain kidney beans (or any other type, other than those in a flavored sauce), they should be drained. If you’re using flavored beans, they can be added without draining. ๐Ÿ™‚

  36. This looks SO good. I’m living in Alaska right now and it’s cold (obviously)…I could really use a bowl of this! Thanks for sharing it with us at the Home Matters Link Party. Hope to see you there again next week! Following you on Pinterest:)

  37. Kirsty Hijacked By Twins

    Chilli is a family favourite here, it is such a versatile meal and can be used in so many ways. This one looks so good! Popping over from #MeltinyourMouthMonday x

  38. Dani

    This looks great but I’m also intrigued that the recipe originally called for honey!! How much honey was it? I do like a little sweet with my savoury and I may try it with the honey added.

    1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

      Hi Patti! If you use plain kidney beans then yes, you should drain them first. Some people like to use beans in chili sauce, which don’t get drained first. I hope you enjoy the recipe!

  39. Laurie

    Super weird question; do you think this recipe will work if I leave out the beans? Maybe add some more beef? I really can’t handle the texture of beans but love chili!

  40. Donna

    I just have to say that for more than 30 years I have been trying to make chili that my husband would rate better than “it was okay”. Well, I don’t know who Bill is but THANK YOU BILL! I made this for Superbowl Sunday and it is the first time he made sure the leftovers came home with us.
    I followed the recipe as written, following the advice of reducing the chili powder, and the only addition I made was about a tablespoon of brown sugar. It says the recipe freezes well, but I won’t know if that’s true until next time since it is all gone!

      1. Lauren

        5 stars
        Just made this. I put it in the crockpot on low and I’m letting it cook all night. I added 8 shakes of worsteshier and 1 tbsp of lime juice and also added 8 cloves of garlic instead of 2. This seriously is the BEST chili recipe I’ve EVER made. Thanks Bill. โค

        1. Brianne Cupcakes & Kale Chips

          I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed the chili recipe, Lauren! Thank you for your comment and for rating the recipe.

  41. Joanne T Ferguson

    G’day! Your chili looks great, true!
    Your photo make me want to try it right away today too!
    Cheers! Joanne
    Viewed as part of Food Friends Friday Chili Party

  42. Big YUM happening here and love your gorgeous photography! Stopping over from the Super Bowl and Chili party. Hope you’ll stop by to link up over at my Tailgating Time Super Bowl party too ๐Ÿ™‚

  43. The Contessa (Linda)

    5 stars
    Thanks for bringing this chili by the Super Bowl/Chili Party at Tumbleweed Contessa. I can tell you have done a lot of testing on this reciipe. That’s what makes chili good. I’ll have mine out there on Sunday for the big game. Drop by to get a taste of it.

    One thing about chili I have been told. You don’t know beans about chili if you put beans IN your chili.
    That’s from a chili cookoff friend of mine!

    Have a SUPER week.

    Linda

  44. 5 stars
    Brianne, this is the best looking Chili ever! I can’t wait to try it. I just read all the ingredients and it sounds amazing! We are chili lovers so I’m sure it will be a hit! Sharing on FB and Pinning ๐Ÿ™‚
    Thanks for sharing!
    Michelle

  45. Hi there. Just to let you know that this lovely post has been featured today in my Need Some Inspiration? series. You originally linked in to Food on Friday: Beef. Have a great week.

    Ps It would be super if you followed Carole’s Chatter. I will follow back.

  46. Joan@Chocolateandmore

    OK, I’m going to have to turn the air down, usually Chili is a winter meal but I can’t wait 6 months to give this a try. Ground beef, stew beef and Bacon! Oh yeah, this is getting made soon. Thanks for sharing, pinned!

  47. Okay, I was really good and brought myself a salad for lunch, but now I don’t want it. I want chili. With bacon. I love chili- it’s one of the two ways I will actually eat red meat, the other being my mother’s beef stew.

    Do you deliver? I’m a good tipper.

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