Spicy Chili Recipe

Name: Spicy Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 250 min
Total time: 270 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 2 (16 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, drained; 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce; 2 onions, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; sour cream for garnish; 0.5 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Cook Time: 250 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
2 (16 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, drained
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
2 onions, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Sour cream for garnish
Shredded Cheddar cheese for garnish

Directions

Gather all the ingredients and prepare them by chopping the vegetables and draining the cans of beans and tomatoes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes, until browned and crumbly. Drain the excess grease from the skillet and discard.
Transfer the cooked ground beef to a slow cooker. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped onions, green bell pepper, minced garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the mixture on the Low setting for 10 hours, or on High for 4 hours. Stir occasionally if desired, to ensure even cooking.
Once the cooking time is complete, give the chili a final stir. Serve each portion with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded Cheddar cheese on top.

Cooks Note

If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper about 2 hours into cooking, and again after 3 hours of cooking to increase the heat level.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 308
Fat: 14g (18% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 6g (29% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 62mg (21% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1024mg (45% Daily Value)
Carbohydrates: 22g (8% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 8g (29% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 23g (47% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 21mg (23% Daily Value)
Calcium: 130mg (10% Daily Value)
Iron: 5mg (30% Daily Value)
Potassium: 483mg (10% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Spicy Chili Recipe

Origin Story
The history of chili dates back to the 18th century, although its roots are hotly debated. It is widely considered to be a product of the Southwestern United States, particularly Texas, where it is often referred to as "Texas chili." The dish emerged as a way to create a hearty and filling meal for cowboys and settlers on the American frontier, made with simple ingredients like beef, beans, and chili peppers. As it spread throughout the country, regional variations developed, with many adding beans, tomatoes, or different spices to suit local tastes. Chili quickly became a staple of American cuisine and is often associated with the comforts of home cooking. The "spicy" version, like the one in this recipe, incorporates cayenne and chili powder to bring a vibrant heat that fans of bold flavors love.

Regional Differences
Chili varies greatly depending on the region in the United States. In Texas, for example, chili is typically made with beef, chili peppers, and spices, without beans, which are considered a sacrilege in many Texan chili recipes. On the other hand, chili made in the northern states, such as those in the Midwest, may include beans, tomatoes, and a mix of ground meats like turkey or pork. This spicy chili recipe reflects the classic Southwestern style with an emphasis on beef, kidney beans, and the bold flavors of cayenne pepper and chili powder, which are staples in most chili recipes. Each region has its own version, but the essential concept of chili a filling, spicy stew remains consistent.

How This Chili Differs From Other Dishes
While chili is often confused with similar stews like beef stew or goulash, it stands apart due to its defining spicy flavor profile and the use of ground meat (typically beef) as the base. Unlike soups and stews, which may be broth-based, chili is usually thick and hearty, thanks to the addition of beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. What truly sets chili apart is the combination of chili powder and cayenne pepper, which gives it its distinct heat. Other meat-based stews, such as goulash, might use different herbs and have a milder, sweeter taste.

Where It Is Typically Served
Chili is a beloved dish served in many settings, from casual family dinners to large gatherings and competitions. In the U.S., it is a popular meal at tailgates, potlucks, and cook-offs. In Texas, chili is often enjoyed on its own or served with cornbread, while other regions might serve it over rice or with crackers. It is also common to find chili on the menu at diners, sports bars, and Mexican restaurants, where it may be accompanied by toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or jalapeos. Chili is not just a meal; it's often part of the culture in areas where it is most popular, especially in cities like Cincinnati, which has its own distinct style of chili.

Interesting Facts
Did you know that chili was once served as a tool of diplomacy? In the 1800s, during the U.S.-Mexico border disputes, chili became a symbol of American pride, often showcased at gatherings to assert cultural dominance. It's also been said that chili was the inspiration for the famous "chili cook-off," an event that originated in Texas in the 1970s. Today, chili cook-offs are held across the country, attracting competitive chefs and passionate home cooks alike. In fact, there are so many variations of chili that entire festivals are dedicated to the dish, with each entrant vying for the title of "Best Chili." Whether you like your chili mild or hot, it's a dish that brings people together and everyone seems to have their own "secret ingredient" for making it just right!

FAQ about Spicy Chili Recipe

You can store leftovers of the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it for a longer time, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing or freezing.

Yes, this chili actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based meat or beans like black beans or more kidney beans. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture.

Yes, you can definitely adjust the spice level to your preference. If you want it milder, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you prefer it spicier, you can add extra chili powder, cayenne, or even fresh chopped jalapeños or hot peppers like habaneros.

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese, or for a healthy twist, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with other meats like turkey, chicken, or even pork. For a leaner option, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a vegetarian chili, you can use plant-based meat alternatives or just beans.

You can store the chili in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it into an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough slow cooker, or you may need to cook the chili in two batches. Cooking times should remain about the same, but make sure the chili is heated thoroughly.

Yes, using canned beans is a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the chili to reduce the amount of sodium. If you'd rather use dried beans, cook them beforehand and add them in with the other ingredients.

Yes, you can increase the spiciness by adding fresh peppers like jalapeños, habaneros, or even ghost peppers for an extra kick. You could also add hot sauce or a splash of spicy salsa for added flavor and heat.

Comments

Kari Shifflett

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Really good chili. I added a can of pinto beans and a can of tomatoes with green chilies. We like our chili a little spicier so I went ahead and added another tablespoon of chili powder near the end. I cooked it on high for 5 hours, and spooned it over a corn bread casserole topped with sour cream and cheese. Yum!!

Megan Clark

07/16/2012 05:55:10 PM

This was a great recipe!! The only thing I changed, was adding 1 extra can of tomato sauce. I decided to do this because it was very solid. The extra sauce made it the best chili I've had!

Johnnybthename

10/18/2015 01:26:51 PM

Very good recipe! But, as always I have to add my own twist. I enjoy my chili really spicy! What I did was after cooking the ground beef I drained the grease out. I then used a food processor to chop up fresh hot cherry peppers, jalapeños, onions, and bell peppers. I then added this mixture to the pan of ground beef along with chili powder, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper, and a can of tomato sauce. This really gets the flavored to cook right into the meat. I let this cook together for about 5-7 mins. This also makes it easier to mix all together. Other than that I also added an additional can of tomato sauce as it was very thick. After cooking it together in my pan, I then put it all in my crock pot along with the diced tomatoes and other ingredients!! Came out awesome!!! Will definitely be making this again!

Ruair Fox

07/01/2019 04:37:41 AM

This is the second time I've made this chili, and it is a solid foundation, but needs some adjustments. I increased the spices and used chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The other change I've made is to use three cans of the hot rotel with habaneros instead of plain diced tomatoes. This recipe makes a TON of chili, which is great for meal prepping. This time around I used a prepackaged mexican cornbread mix and added cornbread dumplings into the crock pot at the end. Yum! Even with the cornbread, it still is pretty healthy and calorie conscious.

Leeza Lisska

06/22/2021 09:31:37 PM

Make it vegan: I used 1 pack Quorn Meatless ground and 1 pack Garden beefless ground (just throw in still frozen) to mimic the varying textures in chili, and it is AMAZING! It still cold and I can’t stop eating. Tastes like I remember chili tasting as a kid which is the key to any classic recipe, isn’t it? I won a chili cookoff with this recipe when I ate meat and now I think its even better!

Dera

12/29/2020 05:51:14 PM

I added 2 cans of fire roasted tomatoes, 1 can of stewed tomatoes , 2 cans of kidney beans, 4 cloves of garlic, 2 1/2 T of Mexican chili powder, 1/2 T of cayenne pepper, 2 cans of water, 1 can of tomato paste, 2 T of Mexican oregano, 1 can of tomato sauce, 2 lbs of 97% lean beef, 1 large onion and 1 bell pepper, salt and pepper as stated.

Lynn Jacobs Rosenthal

11/05/2017 03:31:01 PM

This was wonderful the only thing I changed was I browned the onions and peppers and garlic after browning the meat and I also used two tomato sauces.

Cristobal

01/23/2017 07:18:31 PM

This chili is an excellent base recipe. I made it exactly as indicated, and we loved it! I found that it had just a little too much onion for my tastes, so next time I will reduce the onion by 25%, increase the kidney beans by 25%, and throw in a small can of chopped green chiles. With these small adjustments, it should be absolutely perfect.

mikemcw

11/02/2018 03:55:00 AM

I wanted to make a dish to share for our annual Halloween get together with neighbors, and I thought chili would be the perfect dish. My wife and I like our chili hot: this was recipe was not as hot as we like, but it had a great flavor and nice heat. For some of our neighbors, it was really hot. I think it definitely hit the sweet spot, the entire dish was gone in 10 minutes! Only change I made was to add 1 small, chopped habanero chili.I'm going to make another batch for the weekend, may add one more teaspoon of cayenne and maybe one extra habanero.

Angela Robertson

12/09/2019 03:47:44 AM

This was an absolute hit at the Bible study potluck! I cut the Cayenne pepper down to 1/2 teaspoon and it was the perfect amount of warmth for everyone. For my family, I will kick it up a notch to a teaspoon and a half maybe. A tablespoon is waaaaay too much. Used turkey instead of beef. Everything else the same as recipe. Just perfect. Thanks for this recipe!!

Courtney Williams

03/25/2019 05:11:33 PM

Sooo good! I followed another reviewer's suggestion and put in 1 can of pinto beans and i can of kidney beans, to add variety. I also used 1 pound of ground chicken and one pound of ground turkey instead of ground beef. I added 1 more 8-oz can of tomato sauce. YUMMMY!!

Jean

05/05/2025 01:06:13 AM

I really enjoyed making this recipe. I did make some modifications. First, I added ground pork with the ground beef. I didn't have any tomato puree so, I used two cans or diced tomatoes with basil, two cans of tomato sauce, and added beef broth. I also added cumin, smoked paprika, and increased all of the other seasonings to add a bit more flavor. I also make a side of minute rice and cornbread. My family loved it and went back for seconds. 😊👍

LoyalCod6977

04/27/2025 09:55:41 PM

I added jalapeños

IcyHash3894

02/04/2025 05:48:52 PM

Easy to follow, good and tasty

Rachel Green

01/06/2025 01:41:49 AM

Made it with friends — huge hit!

TidyLeek3711

12/15/2024 01:51:34 PM

Delicious/easy. I have a large family, so I have to double or triple the recipe depending on who's gonna be home for dinner. If you all want to spice this recipe up with ZERO effort/extra ingredients...substitute the diced tomatoes with Rotel diced tomatoes with ghost peppers. Flavor/heat is amazing. You won't be disappointed.

EagerVeal7376

12/01/2024 05:12:53 PM

THIS WAS GREAT! I love chili and this one was perfect, it was meaty and had so many beans which I loved! Definitely recommend, it has great flavor too!

Robert Rodriguez

11/28/2024 04:37:20 PM

Made it twice already — still amazing.

SmartWok2987

10/19/2024 05:59:31 PM

Love it. I went one step further and added jalapeno.

Jason Taylor

05/13/2024 07:20:39 PM

Made it twice already because it was that good.

audio version

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Directions

Cooks Note

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

FAQ about Spicy Chili Recipe