Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe

Name: Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is perfect for gatherings, offering a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:43:05.001Z

This chili recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. It’s the perfect dish for a family gathering or a game day party, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, ideal for feeding a crowd
Customizable with your favorite toppings
Rich flavors that develop as it simmers

      

Perfect for Any Gathering

When it comes to hosting a gathering, having a crowd-pleasing dish is essential. This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe not only serves a large number of people, but it also delivers robust flavors that satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Whether it's a family reunion, game day, or a cozy get-together with friends, this chili is sure to be a hit.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that allows you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option; you can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors deepen overnight.

Customizable to Suit Every Taste

One of the best things about this chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or even go vegetarian by using lentils or a mix of beans. Additionally, you can adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chili powder, or even incorporating fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.

Toppings are another fun way to personalize your chili. Set up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and diced avocados. This allows everyone to build their bowl just the way they like it, making the meal even more enjoyable and interactive.

Cooking Tips for the Best Chili

To achieve the best flavor in your chili, consider allowing it to simmer for longer than the recommended time. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer and more complex taste. If you have the time, let it simmer for a couple of hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as it cooks. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices to make it just right for you. This attention to detail will elevate your chili and impress your guests.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Chili Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

Once all ingredients are prepared, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious chili that everyone will enjoy.

Sauté the Meat and Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your delicious chili with cornbread or over rice!

Serving Suggestions

Once your chili is ready, consider pairing it with some freshly baked cornbread or warm tortillas. These sides complement the dish beautifully and add a comforting touch to the meal. For a refreshing contrast, a simple green salad can help cleanse the palate.

For a fun twist, you can also serve the chili over rice or baked potatoes. This not only adds a hearty base but also allows guests to enjoy the chili in different ways, making the meal more exciting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing chili is a breeze. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Reheating is simple; just warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

When freezing, consider portioning the chili into smaller containers. This way, you can easily defrost only what you need, making it a convenient meal option for busy days when you don’t feel like cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and diced avocado are all great choices.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can increase or decrease the chili powder and add fresh or dried peppers to suit your taste.