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 lbs ground beef or turkey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bell peppers, diced (red and green); 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes; 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1-2 jalapeño peppers, diced (optional for heat); 2 cups beef or vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Gather your friends and family for a deliciously hearty meal with this Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe. Perfect for gatherings, this chili is packed with flavor and sure to please everyone's palate.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:49:12.692Z

This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is the ultimate dish for large gatherings. It's made with fresh ingredients, including a variety of peppers, ground meat, and spices that create a rich and comforting flavor. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or family dinners, this chili is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to adjust the heat level to suit your taste.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for large groups
Customizable to your spice preference
Packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors

      

Perfect for Gatherings

When it comes to hosting a gathering, finding a dish that appeals to everyone can be challenging. This Fresh Chili for a Crowd Recipe is the solution you've been looking for. Its hearty nature and robust flavors make it the perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a game day event, or a family reunion, this chili will warm hearts and satisfy appetites.

Chili is not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare in large quantities. You can make a big batch in one pot, which allows you to spend more time with your guests instead of slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a dish that often tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Endless Customization

One of the best aspects of this chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your guests’ preferences. If you like it hot, add more jalapeños or even some spicy chili peppers. For a milder version, you can simply leave out the heat altogether. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy a bowl of this delicious chili, no matter their spice tolerance.

In addition to adjusting the heat, you can also experiment with various ingredients. Consider adding corn for sweetness, or black beans for a different texture. You could even swap out the ground beef or turkey for plant-based protein alternatives. The possibilities are endless, making this chili a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this chili is just as fun as making it! Consider setting up a toppings bar where guests can customize their bowls with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado slices. This interactive element adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal and allows everyone to tailor their chili experience to their liking.

Pair the chili with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. You might also want to serve it alongside a fresh salad or cornbread to complete the meal. No matter how you choose to serve it, this chili is sure to be a hit that brings everyone together.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef or turkey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, diced (red and green)
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1-2 jalapeño peppers, diced (optional for heat)
2 cups beef or vegetable broth

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

Add Peppers and Spices

Stir in the diced bell peppers, jalapeños (if using), chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers are slightly softened.

Combine Tomatoes and Beans

Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded, serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

Chili Cooking Tips

To elevate the flavors of your chili, consider browning your meat with the spices before adding other ingredients. This technique helps to deepen the flavor profile and ensures that every bite is packed with taste. Additionally, don't rush the simmering process. Allowing the chili to simmer for a longer time will meld the flavors beautifully, creating a richer dish.

For those who love meal prepping, this chili freezes wonderfully. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for freezing. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

Chili can be a nutritious choice when made with wholesome ingredients. The beans provide a great source of protein and fiber, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Using lean ground meat, like turkey, can also lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor. This balance makes chili a hearty yet healthy option for your gatherings.

Furthermore, the spices used in chili, such as cumin and paprika, not only enhance flavor but also offer health benefits. Spices can have anti-inflammatory properties and may boost metabolism, making your chili not just delicious but also a potentially health-conscious choice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the meat with additional beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I make this chili spicier?

Add more jalapeños or include diced habanero peppers for a hotter kick.

→ Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What toppings go well with chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and avocado.