Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe

Name: Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup beef broth; 1 bell pepper, diced

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is the perfect dish for gatherings, packed with flavor and designed to feed a crowd.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:43:08.312Z

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is not just about feeding a large group; it's about bringing people together around a warm, hearty dish. Packed with beans, meat, and spices, it's a comforting favorite that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold days
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Chili is a classic comfort food that transcends seasons and occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual game day gathering, a cozy family dinner, or an outdoor barbecue, this Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe fits the bill. Its hearty flavors and robust ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Another great aspect of this chili is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice levels, add in your favorite vegetables, or substitute proteins to cater to everyone’s tastes. This means that whether you have picky eaters or adventurous foodies in your crowd, there’s a way to make this dish appealing to everyone.

Meal Prep and Leftover Perfection

This chili is not only great for serving a crowd, but it also excels in the realm of meal prep. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you’ll have hearty lunches ready for the week ahead. Just portion it out in containers, refrigerate, or freeze for later use. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the same delicious flavors again without any hassle.

Additionally, the flavors of chili often deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making leftovers even more enjoyable. Pair it with crusty bread or serve it over rice for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Customization Options

One of the best things about this Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is its adaptability. Don’t hesitate to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like lentils or black beans. You can also add spices such as cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra kick or toss in corn and zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Get creative with toppings too! Sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, and fresh cilantro can elevate each bowl to a new level.

If you're cooking for a crowd with diverse dietary needs, consider setting up a chili bar where guests can customize their bowls with a variety of toppings and sides. This interactive approach not only makes your meal more fun but also allows everyone to enjoy it their way.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup beef broth
1 bell pepper, diced

Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Chili

Reduce the heat and let simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Chili Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor, consider allowing your chili to simmer for longer than the suggested time. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste. Additionally, don’t rush the browning of the meat and sautéing of the vegetables, as these initial steps lay the foundation for a depth of flavor.

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans after they have cooked or add a cornstarch slurry to the pot. This will give your chili a heartier texture that many love.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delicious chili, consider pairing it with a variety of sides for a complete meal. Freshly baked cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad can complement the rich flavors of the chili beautifully. For those who enjoy a little crunch, diced avocado or jalapeños can add a refreshing contrast.

For a more festive touch, serve the chili in bread bowls for an impressive presentation. Not only does this make for a fun dining experience, but it also allows guests to enjoy the delicious bread soaked with chili flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Storing leftover chili is simple! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

For the best results when reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up as it warms. This will help maintain the chili’s texture and prevent it from becoming too thick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat alternative.

→ How can I spice it up?

Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat!

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or avocado for added flavor.