Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is perfect for gatherings, offering a hearty and flavorful dish everyone will love.

Madison Cole

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:46:08.253Z

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. It's perfect for potlucks, game days, or family gatherings, bringing everyone together over a warm, comforting bowl of chili.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and filling, perfect for feeding a large group
  • Loaded with fresh ingredients and spices for a robust flavor
  • Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sides

The Perfect Chili for Any Occasion

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is designed to impress and satisfy a large group of hungry guests. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family reunion, or a cozy gathering with friends, this chili is the perfect dish to bring everyone together. It's not just about the flavor; it’s about creating memorable moments with those you love. The hearty ingredients ensure that everyone leaves the table feeling full and happy.

Chili has a wonderful ability to adapt to various tastes and preferences. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your crowd, from mild to fiery hot. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your company. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your home as this chili simmers away, setting the stage for a wonderful evening.

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving a vibrant and robust flavor in your chili. The combination of fresh vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and garlic not only adds depth but also enhances the nutritional value of the dish. By incorporating these wholesome ingredients, you create a chili that is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a guilt-free choice for your gatherings.

The spices used in this recipe, including chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities. These spices work together to create a warm and inviting flavor profile that will have your guests asking for seconds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of each ingredient to shine through.

Customizing Your Chili Experience

One of the best aspects of this Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the meat with additional beans or lentils. You can also experiment with different types of beans or add more vegetables to make it your own. This flexibility ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy a bowl of delicious chili.

Toppings also play a significant role in enhancing your chili experience. Offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions so everyone can personalize their bowl. These finishing touches not only add flavor but also create a visually appealing presentation that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Mix and match your favorite toppings for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the diced bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers soften.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve hot with your choice of toppings!

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Fresh Chili for a Crowd, consider pairing it with warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up every last drop. A crisp green salad on the side can also balance the richness of the chili, providing a refreshing crunch. You might even serve it alongside tortilla chips for a fun and festive twist.

For those looking to elevate the meal, consider creating a chili bar. Set out an array of toppings and sides, allowing guests to build their own perfect bowl. This interactive element adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your gathering, making it a memorable experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers from your chili extravaganza, don’t worry! Chili stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just ensure that it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the chili for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

When reheating, consider adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the chili, as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer. Stir well and heat until piping hot. This way, you’ll enjoy the same great flavors just like the first time around.

Nutritional Benefits

Chili isn’t just a comfort food; it also offers numerous health benefits. The beans provide an excellent source of protein and fiber, which are essential for a balanced diet. They help keep you feeling full and satisfied, making this dish a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Additionally, the tomatoes in this recipe are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, known for its heart health benefits. By cooking the tomatoes, you actually increase the availability of these nutrients. So not only is this chili delicious, but it's also a smart choice for your health.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground meat with more beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ What can I serve with chili?

Cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips are great options to enjoy with chili.

→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is perfect for gatherings, offering a hearty and flavorful dish everyone will love.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time80 minutes

Created by: Madison Cole

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 10 servings

What You'll Need

Chili Ingredients

  1. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  2. 2 large onions, chopped
  3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 2 bell peppers, diced
  5. 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
  6. 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  7. 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
  8. 2 tablespoons chili powder
  9. 1 tablespoon cumin
  10. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  11. Salt and pepper to taste
  12. 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  13. Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Step 02

Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned.

Step 03

Stir in the diced bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers soften.

Step 04

Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 05

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 9g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 25g