Hearty Homemade Chili with Bacon – The Perfect Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a big bowl of chili with bacon. The smoky richness of bacon adds a delicious depth of flavor that transforms a classic chili into something extraordinary. This recipe is hearty, warming, and perfect for family dinners, game days, or cozy nights in. With tender beans, ground beef, spices, and crispy bacon, every spoonful is a flavor-packed bite of comfort.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz / 425 g) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- (Optional Toppings) shredded cheddar, sour cream, jalapeños, chopped cilantro
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Cook the Bacon – In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
- Brown the Meat – Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables – Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Season the Base – Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Toast spices for 1–2 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Add Tomatoes & Broth – Mix in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add Beans & Bacon – Stir in kidney beans, black beans, and cooked bacon pieces. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Chili – Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Taste & Adjust – Season with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
- Serve Hot – Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serving Size: Serves 6–8 bowls
Tips & Variations
- Extra Smoky Flavor: Use smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke.
- Make It Spicier: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and beef—use more beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook bacon and beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Bowl)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients.)
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Drain bacon grease and sauté veggies in olive oil instead.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; just ensure broth and toppings are gluten-free certified.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the beans and replace with extra ground beef and low-carb veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Low-Sodium: Use no-salt-added canned tomatoes and beans, and season with herbs instead of salt.
Serving Suggestions
A steaming bowl of chili with bacon is best served hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. Pair it with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for potlucks, game nights, or weeknight dinners—this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make chili with bacon ahead of time?
Yes! Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q2: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is leaner and still adds a smoky flavor, though it won’t be as rich as pork bacon.
Q3: How can I thicken my chili?
Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid, or stir in 1 tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina for a thicker consistency.
Q4: What beans are best for chili with bacon?
Kidney beans and black beans are classic, but you can also use pinto beans or a mix for variety.
Q5: Is this chili too spicy for kids?
You can easily control the heat—omit cayenne and reduce chili powder for a milder version.
