The Best Chili Ever

Bold, hearty, and packed with flavor, "The Best Chili Ever" is a true crowd-pleaser that earns its name with every bite. This recipe combines tender ground beef and pork with a vibrant medley of vegetables, including bell peppers, onions, and garlic, all simmered to perfection in a rich, spiced tomato broth. Smoky paprika, cumin, and a touch of cayenne deliver just the right kick, while a surprising addition of dark chocolate enhances the depth of flavor like magic. Two kinds of beans—kidney and black—add a satisfying texture and heartiness, making this chili a comfort food classic that’s ideal for game day, family dinners, or chilly evenings. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheddar, fresh cilantro, or spicy jalapeños for the ultimate customizable bowl. Ready in just over two hours with minimal prep, this one-pot wonder is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd while filling your home with irresistible aromas. Don’t miss out on mastering this ultimate chili recipe that captures the essence of homemade goodness!

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:135 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 pound ground pork
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ounce dark chocolate (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 0.25 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
• 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
• 0.25 cup sliced jalapeños (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the diced green and red bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5

Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the ground beef and ground pork. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a spatula as it cooks, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 6

Stir the cooked meat and vegetables together, then drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 7

Mix in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.

Step 8

Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 9

Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 10

Add the kidney beans and black beans to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 45-60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 11

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If using, break the dark chocolate into small pieces and stir it into the chili until melted for added depth of flavor.

Step 12

Remove the chili from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 13

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced jalapeños, as desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3601.6 grams (3601.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4464

Total Fat 260.50g	334%
Saturated Fat 100.20g	501%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 819mg	273%
Sodium 4620mg	201%
Total Carbohydrate 252.90g	92%
Dietary Fiber 76.20g	272%
Total Sugars 58.40g
Protein 276.60g	553%

Vitamin D 40IU	201%
Calcium 1282mg	99%
Iron 47mg	260%
Potassium 7097mg	151%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.5%

Protein: 24.8%

Carbs: 22.7%