Beef And Bacon Chili Recipe

This hearty Beef and Bacon Chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Packed with savory bacon, juicy beef, and a rich blend of spices, it's the perfect comforting meal for a chilly evening. Easy to follow instructions and customizable toppings make this chili a winner for both beginner and experienced cooks. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 711.1 kcal
Protein 86g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Beef And Bacon Chili

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

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

  1. Dice bacon and chop onion and green bell pepper.
  2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp (about 8-10 minutes).
  3. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
  4. 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).
  5. Drain off any excess grease.
  6. 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.
  7. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. 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