If you’ve ever wished for a comforting bowl that wraps you in warmth and packs a punch of hearty flavors, this Southern Homemade Chili Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the kind of chili that melds rich, savory ground beef with tender beans and just the right mix of spices to create that perfect harmony of spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet notes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving that authentic Southern charm on a chilly evening, this chili delivers every time with its soul-soothing taste and robust texture that invites seconds and thirds without shame.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Southern Homemade Chili Recipe comes together with straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that sing when combined. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the textures and flavors that make this chili unforgettable.
- 2 lbs lean ground beef: The meaty backbone of the chili that provides protein and rich flavor.
- 1 (29-oz) can crushed tomatoes: Adds a vibrant, tangy base and thickens the chili deliciously.
- 2 (14-oz) cans kidney beans (with liquid): Bring creamy texture and hearty bites that balance the meat.
- 2 (14-oz) cans pinto beans (with liquid): Complement the kidney beans while adding subtle earthiness.
- 1 (10-oz) can tomatoes with green chiles (with liquid): Introduces a gentle kick and extra depth with mild heat.
- 1 tsp cumin: Warms the chili with an aromatic, nutty flavor.
- ¾ tsp garlic powder: Boosts savoriness for a robust chili profile.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Delivers sweet and pungent undertones that enhance the base.
- 1.5 tbsp chili powder: The essential spice that provides the classic chili heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle sharpness and layers of flavor.
- 2 tsp salt: Balances all the elements and intensifies taste.
- 1.5 cups water: Ensures the chili simmers to perfect thickness without drying out.
How to Make Southern Homemade Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large Dutch oven or an 8-quart stockpot over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned and crumbled, releasing those savory juices. Don’t drain the fat — it adds beautiful flavor to your chili foundation.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes along with both cans of kidney and pinto beans — liquid and all. Pour in the can of tomatoes with green chiles, including its spicy juice. This mixture begins building layers of rich, hearty goodness with every stir.
Step 3: Season the Chili
Sprinkle in the cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. These spices are your chili’s magic dust, infusing it with that classic, bold flavor profile you crave.
Step 4: Add Water and Simmer
Pour in 1.5 cups of water to give your chili a perfect consistency — not too thick, not too thin. Mix everything thoroughly before bringing your pot to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 1.5 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to let all those flavors swirl and marry beautifully.
How to Serve Southern Homemade Chili Recipe
Garnishes
A bowl of this chili is a canvas for toppings! Fresh shredded cheddar cheese melts wonderfully on top, while diced onions add a crisp bite. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream to cool down the heat or sliced jalapeños if you love an extra punch of spice. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime can brighten every spoonful.
Side Dishes
Southern Homemade Chili Recipe pairs exceptionally well with classic cornbread — warm, crumbly, and slightly sweet. If you want to keep things light, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors. For a hearty feast, serve alongside buttery garlic bread or crispy tortilla chips perfect for scooping.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your chili in hollowed-out bell peppers or baked potatoes to elevate the presentation and add an extra veggie boost. For game day or casual get-togethers, invite guests to build their own chili bowls with a variety of toppings. This makes the experience fun and interactive, turning a simple meal into a memorable event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Southern Homemade Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve flavors and moisture. The stew-like nature of chili means it actually tastes better the next day as the spices continue to meld.
Freezing
This chili freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label and date your containers; the chili will stay fresh for up to 3 months, ready to thaw and enjoy anytime cravings hit.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. You can also microwave individual portions, just stir halfway through heating for consistency. If it thickens too much after storage, stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative that still works well in this Southern Homemade Chili Recipe. Just be sure to brown the meat thoroughly to develop flavor, and consider adding a bit more seasoning to compensate for the milder taste.
What if I don’t have canned tomatoes with green chiles?
If you can’t find canned tomatoes with green chiles, you can substitute with regular diced tomatoes and add your own chopped green chilies or jalapeños for the extra kick. This keeps that characteristic mild heat without altering texture.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use extra beans or add lentils. Incorporate a vegetarian-friendly broth to maintain depth of flavor. The spices and tomatoes will still give you that rich, warming chili experience.
How spicy is this chili?
This Southern Homemade Chili Recipe has a moderate level of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice without overwhelming their palate. You can easily adjust the chili powder or add more fresh or canned chiles to customize the heat to your liking.
Can I cook this chili in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Definitely! Brown the beef first and then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or manual for 15 minutes in the Instant Pot. This flexibility lets you prepare the chili ahead and have it ready whenever hunger strikes.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Homemade Chili Recipe is truly a star in any kitchen, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or the centerpiece of a festive gathering. Its layers of flavor, comforting warmth, and unbeatable aroma will make it a staple you reach for again and again. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this chili your own—it’s as versatile as it is delicious, and every bite feels like a cozy hug from down South.
Print
Southern Homemade Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Southern Homemade Chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish made with lean ground beef, a variety of beans, crushed tomatoes, and a blend of classic chili spices. It simmers slowly on the stovetop to develop a rich, robust taste that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This versatile chili can also be prepared using a slow cooker or an Instant Pot for convenience, making it an ideal option for busy days or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 (29-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (14-oz) cans kidney beans (with liquid)
- 2 (14-oz) cans pinto beans (with liquid)
- 1 (10-oz) can tomatoes with green chiles (with liquid)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp cumin
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1.5 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp salt
Liquid
- 1.5 cups water
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a Dutch oven or an 8-quart stockpot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, stirring and breaking it up until fully cooked. Do not drain the fat, as it adds flavor to the chili.
- Add Ingredients: Open and add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and tomatoes with green chiles into the pot with the browned beef, including all their liquid. Stir to combine.
- Season the Chili: Add the cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the chili.
- Add Water: Pour in 1.5 cups of water and mix thoroughly to loosen the chili and help with simmering.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered over low to medium heat for about 1.5 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the chili hot. Optional toppings include shredded cheese and other favorite chili toppings like sour cream, chopped onions, or jalapeños.
- Slow Cooker Instructions: Brown the ground beef in a skillet without draining the fat. Transfer the browned beef and all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Serve hot with desired toppings.
- Instant Pot Instructions: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” and brown the ground beef without draining the fat. Add all remaining ingredients and stir well. Set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 15 minutes. Perform a quick release of pressure and serve hot with toppings.
Notes
- Do not drain the fat after browning the beef to retain flavor.
- Stirring frequently during simmering prevents the chili from sticking to the pot bottom.
- Adjust salt and chili powder to taste depending on preferred spice level.
- This chili improves in flavor when reheated and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños enhance the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
