The Big Game Chili CrowdPleasing Comfort Serves a Gang

- Recipe Introduction
- What You'll Need for This Epic Feast
- The Star of the Show: Ground Beef
- Beans, glorious beans for the best chili recipe
- Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Chili Ever!
- Cooking Method: Turning Humble Ingredients into The Best Chili Recipe Ever
- Recipe Notes for the Best Chili Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Big Game Chili Crowdpleasing Comfort Serves

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 10-15g |
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever found yourself feeding an army? Honestly, this recipe for chili for crowds is a lifesaver. It’s a deeply flavorful, hearty chili, that's easy and always a hit.
Brief Overview
Chili, in its essence, is a Tex-Mex staple. This best chili recipe is all about big flavors and sharing. This recipe is super easy.
It takes about 20 minutes to prep and around 2- 3 hours to cook. It will make about 12-15 servings.
Main Benefits
This chili for a large group is packed with protein and fiber. It's the perfect thing for Bonfire Night. This particular recipe is special because it's incredibly versatile, think: veggie or meat lover options.
What You'll Need for This Epic Feast
Ready to get started? First, let's chat about the stuff you need. You know, the heroes of our party chili recipe . Grab your shopping list, mate!
The Star of the Show: Ground Beef
Alright, the foundation of our ground beef chili recipe . You will need 3 pounds (1.36 kg) ground beef, preferably chuck, 80/20 blend.
I like using chuck because it adds a ton of flavor.
Beans, glorious beans for the best chili recipe
These little guys add so much to this recipe. 2 (15 ounce/425g) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed and 1 (15 ounce/425g) can black beans, drained and rinsed.
Pro Tip: give them a good rinse before adding to the pot!
I remember one time, I forgot to rinse my beans. The chili was still edible, but the texture wasn't ideal. Learn from my mistakes, yeah?
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Chili Ever!
So, you're making chili for crowds ? Ace! First, let's gather our bits. This easy chili recipe starts with awesome ingredients.
Don't worry, I'll tell you what to look for to make this the best chili recipe your mates have ever tasted! Honestly, once you've got the basics sorted, it's all plain sailing.
Main Ingredients: Let's Talk Quantities
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). It doesn't need to be fancy extra virgin for this.
- Ground Beef: 3 pounds ( 1.36 kg ). Look for an 80/20 blend of ground beef chuck. This ground beef chili recipe needs a bit of fat for flavour!
- Onions: 2 large, chopped (approx. 400g ). Brown onions are the classic choice.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (approx. 12g ). Fresh garlic is king here.
- Bell Peppers: 2 , chopped (approx. 300g ). Any colour works, but red or orange adds sweetness.
- Jalapeño Pepper: 1 , seeded and minced (approx. 10g ) (optional). Only if you want a kick!
- Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons ( 20g ). Go for a good quality blend, not the cheap stuff.
- Ground Cumin: 2 teaspoons ( 10g ).
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon ( 5g ). Adds a lovely smoky depth.
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon ( 5g ).
- Cayenne Pepper: ½ teaspoon ( 2.5g ) (optional). For extra heat!
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can .
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can .
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can , undrained.
- Beef Broth: 1 cup ( 240 ml ). Use good quality stuff.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ).
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon ( 15g ). Don't skip this!
- Brown Sugar: 1 teaspoon ( 5g ).
- Kidney Beans: 2 (15 ounce/425g) cans , drained and rinsed.
- Black Beans: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can , drained and rinsed.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life!
The spice combination is the heart of any good chili. Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne are your core players.
Play around! Taste as you go and adjust the amount to your liking. Worcestershire sauce adds umami, and brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
If you fancy something a bit different, chuck in a pinch of coriander!
No smoked paprika? Normal paprika will do. Out of apple cider vinegar? Red wine vinegar will work.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- Large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot. At least 6-quart capacity. If you are making this large batch chili recipe , this is essential!
- Large skillet (optional). For browning the beef in batches.
- Cutting board and chef's knife.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Wooden spoon or spatula.
Don't stress if you don't have a Dutch oven! A big, heavy pot will do the trick. This party chili recipe is all about flavour, so don't skimp on the spices, and trust your gut.
You've got this! Let's get cooking this best chili recipe !
Cooking Method: Turning Humble Ingredients into The Best Chili Recipe Ever
Want to nail the perfect chili for crowds ? This isn't just chucking a load of stuff into a pot.
A bit of know how can take your chili from "meh" to "Oh my gosh, can I have seconds?". Honestly, there's nothing better than a big pot of bubbling chili on a cold night, especially when you're feeding your friends on bonfire night.
Here's the lowdown.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place is key. Chop all your veggies before you even think about turning on the hob. We are talking about 2 large onions, 4 cloves garlic, 2 bell peppers and 1 jalapeño pepper.
This saves time and stops you from panicking later. Imagine trying to chop onions with one hand while stirring mince with the other! Been there, done that, got the singed apron.
Don't be a muppet: safety first. Sharp knives and hot oil are a dangerous combo. Make sure your chopping board is stable, and keep a damp cloth handy for wiping spills.
Oh, and don't forget to tie back your hair.
Step-by-Step Process: Chili Magic in Action
- First, brown 3 pounds ground beef in your Dutch oven over medium high heat. Then, drain off the excess fat.
- Chuck in your chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeño with the beef. Sauté until softened, about 5- 7 minutes .
- Stir in your spices: 2 tablespoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper . Cook for about 1 minute , stirring constantly to bloom those lovely spices.
- Add the tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, and 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes . Also, pour in 1 cup beef broth, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon brown sugar . Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 hours . This is where the magic happens. The longer it simmers, the richer and deeper the flavors become.
Pro Tips for a Cracking Chili
Don't rush the simmer time. Low and slow is the key to a killer chili. Trust me, it's worth the wait.
Taste as you go! Seasoning is crucial. Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like it hot.
Thinking ahead? You can make this large batch chili recipe a day or two in advance. The flavors actually improve overnight.
Just reheat it gently before serving and get ready for the rave reviews. Honestly, this might be the easy chili recipe you have been looking for.
Recipe Notes for the Best Chili Recipe
Alright, so you’re about to tackle this chili for crowds , eh? This is my take on easy chili recipe that can feed an army, perfect for a party chili recipe .
Before we get cracking, here are a few nuggets of wisdom I’ve picked up along the way, perfect for chili for potluck .
This is a perfect large batch chili recipe .
Serving Suggestions: Get Your Plating On!
Presentation matters, even with something as rustic as chili. I like to ladle the chili into bowls and let everyone customize their toppings.
Think a buffet of shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and a cheeky bit of hot sauce for those who like a kick.
For sides, cornbread is a classic, but don't underestimate a simple side salad to cut through the richness. As for drinks? Ice-cold beer or a sweet tea are always winners.
And if you’re feeling fancy, margaritas never hurt anyone! Especially for a Super Bowl chili recipe or bonfire night chili.
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
If you've got leftovers (unlikely, but hey!), let the chili cool completely before refrigerating. It'll keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days .
Want to freeze it? No problem! Portion it out into freezer safe containers or bags. It'll be good for up to 3 months .
To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Honestly, sometimes I think chili tastes even better the next day!
Variations: Make it Your Own
This recipe is super flexible. Want a vegetarian chili recipe or vegan chili recipe ? Easy peasy! Just swap the ground beef for plant based mince or add more beans and veggies like corn, courgette, or butternut squash.
For a seasonal twist, try adding some roasted sweet potatoes in the autumn or fresh corn in the summer. Maybe try White Chicken Chili Recipe by switching the ground beef to shredded chicken.
Nutrition Basics: Fueling the Fun
Each serving is packed with protein, fiber, and all sorts of good stuff. Think around 450-550 calories per serving, but that's just an estimate.
Remember, topping choices can affect this. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that'll keep everyone going all night long. Plus, all those beans are great for your gut!
So there you have it! With these tips in your arsenal, you're ready to whip up the best chili recipe ever.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Now go forth and feed the masses!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance can I make this chili for crowds? I'm planning a right knees-up!
You can absolutely make this chili a day or two ahead of your gathering. In fact, many people reckon it tastes even better the next day! The flavors have more time to meld together, giving it that extra oomph, much like a good stew benefits from a bit of patience.
Can I freeze leftover chili for crowds? I always end up with tons!
Yes, chili freezes brilliantly! Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer safe containers or bags. Properly stored, it'll keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to tuck in, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Give it a good stir while reheating on the hob to ensure it's heated through evenly.
Is there a way to make this chili for crowds spicier? My mates are proper chilli heads!
Certainly! For an extra kick, add more cayenne pepper or include a couple of finely chopped Scotch bonnet peppers (use with caution!). You could also use a hotter chili powder blend or serve with a selection of hot sauces for people to customise their own bowls. A little dollop of sriracha never goes amiss either.
Can I make this chili for crowds in a slow cooker?
You sure can. Brown the beef and saute the aromatics as outlined in steps 1 and 2. Then transfer everything, including the beans, to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Perfect for a "set it and forget it" kind of day!
I'm feeding a load of vegetarians - can I adapt this recipe to make vegetarian chili for crowds?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant based mince alternative, or bulk it up with extra beans and veg like corn, sweet potato, or butternut squash. You might also want to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
The spices and other ingredients will still give it that lovely chili flavour, so no one will miss the meat, guv'nor!