If you’re craving something deeply comforting, packed with bold flavors and rich textures, look no further than this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe. This hearty chili brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender beans, and a wonderful medley of spices that will warm your soul with every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and one that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a friendly get-together, this chili will steal the show with its authentic Southern flair and crowd-pleasing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors. Each element plays a vital role in the texture, color, and depth of the dish, making sure every bite is just right.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and less grease.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and foundational flavor when sautéed.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Brings a fresh crunch and a splash of vibrant color to the chili.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the chili with its signature warmth and aromatic punch.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Provides juicy acidity and body to the chili base.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and a boost of protein.
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Enhances the chili’s heartiness and mild nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star seasoning that offers depth and a smoky kick.
- 1 tablespoon cumin: Brings a warm, earthy undertone that pairs perfectly with chili powder.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky richness to elevate the soulfulness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a bit of heat, cayenne spices things up just right.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every bite.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a luscious, savory base that keeps the chili moist and flavorful.
How to Make Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Brown it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat to avoid greasiness but keep all the flavor pellets at the bottom of the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything until the onion softens and the bell pepper becomes tender. This step builds the foundational flavor that makes this chili so irresistible.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Now, sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if you like it spicy, and salt and pepper. Stir well to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the fragrant spice blend.
Step 4: Add Beef Broth and Simmer
Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to meld the flavors and allow the chili to thicken to the perfect consistency.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or chili powder to your preference. This last tweak ensures your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe is perfectly tailored to your palate.
How to Serve Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
Garnishes
To take your chili experience up a notch, top your bowl with fresh garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Each garnish adds a lovely contrast in color and creaminess that complements the spicy, smoky chili.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as warm cornbread, buttery crackers, or fluffy white rice. These sides soak up the chili’s hearty juices and give you a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this chili in bread bowls or stuff it into baked potatoes for a cozy, portable meal. You can also use it as a topping for hot dogs or nachos to add that rich Southern soul flavor to your favorite comfort foods.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture, so each future serving tastes just as vibrant as the first.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, this chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for some soul-warming comfort, just thaw and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure it heats evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great leaner alternatives. Just keep in mind they may need a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor since they are milder than beef.
Is this chili very spicy?
This recipe has a nice balance of warmth and smoky heat, but it’s not overwhelming. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance or leave it out completely for a gentler flavor.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, by swapping out the ground beef for a vegetarian protein like crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth, you can still enjoy a soulful and delicious chili.
What’s the best way to thicken the chili if it’s too watery?
Simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to let the liquid reduce naturally. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans against the pot’s side to create a thicker texture.
Does the chili taste better the next day?
Absolutely! Like many stews, this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe develops even more complex and harmonious flavors after resting overnight, making your leftovers truly something special.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the secrets to the Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe, it’s time to bring warmth and incredible flavor to your table. This chili is more than just a meal — it’s comfort, tradition, and soul in a bowl. Give it a try, share it with friends and family, and watch it become your go-to recipe for those chilly evenings or anytime you need a little extra love in your kitchen.
Print
Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices for a classic Southern comfort meal. Perfectly seasoned and simmered to meld the rich flavors, this chili is ideal for cozy dinners and feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry Items and Spices
- 1 can diced tomatoes (approx. 14.5 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (approx. 15 oz)
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (approx. 15 oz)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, then drain the excess fat carefully to avoid greasy chili.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, beans, and spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors.
- Simmer the chili: Pour in the 2 cups of beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and develop the flavors.
- Final seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, optionally with your favorite chili toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
- For thicker chili, simmer uncovered longer to reduce liquid or add a tablespoon of tomato paste when adding the diced tomatoes.
