If you’re craving a hearty, soulful meal that feels like a warm hug from the South, you’re going to absolutely adore this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe. It’s packed with rich, comforting flavors from tender ground beef, smoky spices, and vibrant beans, all melded together in a deliciously thick, savory stew. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a soul-satisfying dinner, this chili has the perfect balance of bold spices and tender, wholesome ingredients that will keep everyone coming back for seconds and thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this chili truly shine. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the savory beef, smoky spices, or the hearty beans that add richness and body.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that adds richness and depth to every spoonful.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds freshness, subtle sweetness, and a pop of vibrant color.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a warm, savory punch that wakes up the palate.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and juiciness to balance the hearty ingredients.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds texture and a creamy bite to each mouthful.
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Complements the kidney beans with a smooth, buttery finish.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The bold flavor foundation that gives this chili its classic kick.
- 1 tablespoon cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy undertone that’s unmistakably Southern.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that enriches every ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a little fire and extra heat!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together perfectly.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory and hearty liquid base that brings everything to life.
How to Make Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. This step not only cooks the meat but also develops a lovely caramelized flavor that’s the backbone of this chili. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the chili hearty but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Next, toss in the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they soften and release their fragrant aromas. This soft vegetable base is where the chili starts to take on its soulful character, blending sweetness from the onions and peppers with the punch of garlic.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This is the moment when all the flavors come together, turning simple ingredients into a symphony of tastes that define this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This simmering time allows the spices to infuse fully and the chili to thicken to a luscious consistency, making it irresistibly comforting and satisfying.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give your chili a good stir and taste it. Adjust the seasoning as needed—sometimes a pinch more salt or a touch more chili powder can elevate it to perfection. Your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe is now ready to warm your soul and impress your taste buds.
How to Serve Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh garnishes takes your chili to the next level and adds bursts of flavor and texture. Try a dollop of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt to cool down the spice, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for richness, or a handful of chopped scallions or fresh cilantro for freshness. A few crushed tortilla chips or a squeeze of lime also work beautifully here.
Side Dishes
This chili is great on its own but truly shines when paired with classic Southern sides. Cornbread, with its sweet crumbly texture, is a natural partner. For something lighter, a crisp green salad balances the chili’s richness, or you can go for creamy mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes to soak up every drop.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve this chili in individual bread bowls for a fun, edible presentation, or layer it over baked potatoes topped with cheese and sour cream for a hearty, customizable meal. You can even use it as a base for chili nachos—pile tortilla chips high, drizzle with chili, cheese, and jalapeños for a party-perfect dish!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more so, than the first day.
Freezing
This chili freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months, providing a quick, comforting meal whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between, until heated through and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based proteins like lentils, textured vegetable protein, or additional beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian.
How spicy is the Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe?
The chili has a moderate kick thanks to chili powder and smoked paprika. Adding cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted to your preferred heat level, making it versatile for all spice tolerances.
What type of beans work best in this chili?
Kidney and pinto beans are classic choices for texture and flavor, but you can experiment with black beans or even navy beans if you want a twist. Just be sure to drain and rinse canned beans well to reduce excess sodium.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cook option really lets the flavors develop deeply.
What’s the best way to thicken the chili if it’s too runny?
Simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, stir in a small amount of cornmeal or masa harina to help thicken the chili without altering its flavor.
Final Thoughts
Give this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic that’s stood the test of time. It’s the kind of dish that’s as comforting on a chilly evening as it is impressive at gatherings. Rich, flavorful, and soul-warming, this chili promises to become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Dig in and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, beans, and a blend of warming spices. Simmered to perfection on the stovetop, it delivers the authentic taste of southern comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
Spices and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili from being greasy.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook and stir until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything evenly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the Chili: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to meld the flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño during the sauté step.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Leftover chili tastes even better the next day and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with cornbread, shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for an authentic southern touch.
- To make this chili vegetarian, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, increasing beans or adding lentils for protein.
