Ingredients for Beef And Bacon Chili
- 8 ounces bacon, diced
- Lean Ground Beef
- Onions
- Whole Tomatoes
- Pinto Beans
- Picante sauce (for serving, optional)
- Chili Powder
- Ground Cumin
- Salt
How to Make Beef And Bacon Chili
- Dice bacon and chop onion and green bell pepper.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- Add ground beef to the pan and brown, breaking it up with a spoon. Add chopped onion and green pepper; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the reserved cooked bacon.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Ladle chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, chopped cilantro, and/or extra picante sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
64 g
Sugar
42g
Fat
67g
Carbs
16g