Touchdown Chili is a hearty, flavor-packed chili perfect for game day gatherings or cozy family dinners. Loaded with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a robust mix of spices, this chili has a comforting richness and just the right amount of kick. It’s ideal for slow simmering on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together and deepen. Serve it up with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions, or with a side of cornbread to round out this warming, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips, or jalapeño slices
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a deeper flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.
Touchdown Chili is a winning dish that’s sure to bring everyone together, with its bold flavors and comforting warmth—a must-have for any game day spread or chilly evening meal.
