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Family Chili Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs extra-lean ground beef (or substitute ground turkey breast, chicken breast, or pork) — ground turkey is recommended

  • 3 – 28 oz cans whole tomatoes (or about 8 fresh medium tomatoes, diced; add water if needed)

  • 1 Chili Kit (includes seasoning, no added salt)

  • 1 large yellow onion, diced (or two medium onions)

  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced

  • 2 large jalapeños, diced, deseeded and destemmed (optional)

  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed

  • 1–2 cups water (enough to cover beans)

  • Salt to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beans:

    • Soak beans overnight in enough water to cover them plus 3 inches. Drain and set aside.

    • Optional: If you don’t soak beans, cook them in a slow cooker with the other ingredients — just allow extra cooking time until tender.

  2. Brown the Meat:

    • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil for turkey or chicken (optional for beef/pork).

    • Brown the meat in a large skillet. Drain excess grease.

  3. Cook the Vegetables:

    • Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic to the meat.

    • Cook until vegetables are translucent.

  4. Combine Ingredients:

    • Add the canned or fresh diced tomatoes and remaining ingredients, including the chili seasoning.

    • Add enough water to cover the beans plus about 2 inches.

  5. Simmer:

    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.

    • Cover and cook for 2–3 hours, or until beans are tender.

    • If beans were not soaked, cook an additional hour or until tender.

    • Add more water if needed.

  6. Adjust Flavor & Heat:

    • Add extra chili seasoning to taste (up to ¾ cup recommended).

    • For more heat, stir in hot red or green chile, or our Green Ghost Seasoning Mix for extreme heat.


Notes

  • This chili is spicy but not overly hot by default.

  • Thick, rich, and flavorful — perfect for family dinners, game days, or gatherings.

  • Pair with cornbread, rice, or your favorite toppings.


Comments & Questions: Feel free to leave a note — I love hearing how your chili turns out!

— Debbie Roberti