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 or turkey; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bell peppers, diced; 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef or vegetable broth; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is perfect for gatherings, delivering bold flavors and a satisfying warmth that everyone will love.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:34:22.843Z

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd is a go-to recipe for any large gathering. It's hearty, flavorful, and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste. Whether you're hosting a game day party or a family reunion, this chili will warm everyone's hearts and bellies!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold flavors that bring everyone together
Easily customizable with your favorite beans and meats
Perfect for make-ahead meals and leftovers

      

Gathering for Chili Night

Hosting a gathering can sometimes feel overwhelming, but serving up a big pot of fresh chili is a surefire way to bring everyone together. The aroma of simmering spices and hearty ingredients fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to mingle and enjoy each other's company. Whether it's a cozy family gathering or a lively party with friends, this chili recipe fits the bill perfectly, allowing you to focus on your guests rather than spending all your time in the kitchen.

Chili is not just a meal; it's an experience. The joy of sharing a warm bowl of chili with loved ones, topped with all your favorite garnishes, creates lasting memories. Plus, it's a versatile dish that can cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions, making it a hit with everyone.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the best aspects of chili is its adaptability. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Want to spice things up? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick the heat up a notch. Prefer a vegetarian option? Swap out the meat for additional beans or textured vegetable protein for a satisfying plant-based meal.

Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto or cannellini, or incorporate your favorite vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition and flavor. The beauty of chili lies in its flexibility, so don't hesitate to make it your own!

Make-Ahead and Leftover Magic

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is not only perfect for gatherings but is also ideal for meal prep. Making chili in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish when it's time to serve. Prepare a big batch on the weekend, and you'll have hearty meals ready to go throughout the week.

Leftovers taste even better the next day, making chili an excellent option for lunch or dinner. Store any remaining chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze it for longer storage. Reheating it is a breeze; simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and enjoy a comforting meal on a busy day.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious chili:

Chili Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef or turkey
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, diced
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chili:

Cook the Meat

In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Ingredients

Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and broth. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Chili

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

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy the warmth of this chili!

Enjoy your freshly made chili with friends and family!

Chili Pairings

To elevate your chili experience, consider pairing it with some delicious sides. Cornbread is a classic companion that complements the rich flavors of chili perfectly, providing a sweet and buttery contrast. You might also enjoy serving tortilla chips or crispy crackers for added crunch and texture.

For a fresh touch, a simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up the meal and offer a refreshing balance to the hearty chili. Don't forget to have plenty of toppings available, like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions, so everyone can customize their bowl just the way they like it.

Chili Storage Tips

When it comes to storing chili, the key is to let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to containers. Use airtight containers to keep your chili fresh in the refrigerator or freezer. For freezer storage, consider portioning out individual servings, making it easy to grab a quick meal anytime you need it.

If you're unsure how long your chili will last, remember that refrigerated chili is best consumed within five days, while frozen chili can last up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives.

→ Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

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

→ How can I store leftovers?

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