If you’re craving a hearty, soul-soothing dish that packs a punch of flavor and comfort, this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with bold spices, tender ground beef, and comforting beans, this chili brings together the essence of Southern cooking in every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual get-together, this chili will quickly become the centerpiece everyone raves about, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the secret to this chili’s incredible taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding depth and spice to providing hearty richness and vibrant color.

1 lb ground beef: The rich, savory base that makes this chili satisfyingly meaty and filling.
1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed to perfection.
1 bell pepper, chopped: For a splash of color and subtle crunch that lightens the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that warm, inviting kick and characteristic Southern soul flavor.
1 can diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and juiciness that balances the richness.
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and chewy texture, classic chili comfort food.
1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Enhances the hearty feel and provides a different bean texture.
2 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice that defines the dish’s rustic, smoky character.
1 tablespoon cumin: Warm and earthy notes that create depth and complexity.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a rich smoky flavor, perfect for soul food lovers.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like it with a little extra heat and boldness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly, never underestimate seasoning.
2 cups beef broth: Keeps the chili luscious and saucy with savory goodness.

How to Make Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook it until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it sizzles. Drain off any excess fat for a healthier, cleaner flavor foundation — this step gives your chili that classic hearty texture without greasiness.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic straight into the pot with the beef. Sauté everything until the veggies soften and release their fragrant aromas — this combo is the heart of that irresistible, warming Southern soul taste we all crave.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans & Spices

It’s flavor city now! Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans, then dust the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, optional cayenne, salt, and pepper evenly over your mixture. Give everything a good stir to marry those bold spices with the savory ingredients before bringing it all together with broth.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in two cups of beef broth and crank the heat so the chili comes to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it gently simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring from time to time. This slow simmer allows flavors to deepen and blend into that soul food magic that makes this dish truly award-winning.

Step 5: Final Taste and Adjust

As the final step, taste your chili to see if it needs an extra pinch of salt, pepper, or chili powder. These little tweaks ensure your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe is perfectly seasoned and ready to delight every palate.

How to Serve Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes turn a simple bowl of chili into something special. Try fresh chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, or even some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. These toppings add texture, creaminess, and vibrant contrast, enhancing every mouthful.

Side Dishes

Complement this robust chili with cornbread brushed with butter or a side of crispy tortilla chips. A simple fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette can also cut through the richness, creating a balanced meal that feels complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow guests? Serve the chili inside hollowed-out bread bowls or over fluffy white rice for a heartier presentation. For a fun twist, spoon it atop baked potatoes or even use it as a filling for chili-stuffed peppers—your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe adapts perfectly to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chili keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store your leftovers in an airtight container so it stays fresh and maintains its rich, complex flavors for quick and delicious meals later on.

Freezing

Planning ahead? Simply let your chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes wonderfully and can be kept for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently to keep the texture just right. Adding a splash of broth or water during reheating will help maintain that perfect, saucy consistency you loved from the start.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that still works well in this chili, though the flavor will be slightly lighter. You may want to add a touch more seasoning to keep that bold Southern soul flavor.

Is this chili spicy?

This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe has a gentle warmth thanks to the spices, but the heat is adjustable. You can omit or reduce the cayenne pepper to suit your taste or turn up the heat if you like it really spicy.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly, still incredibly tasty version.

What’s the best way to thicken chili if it’s too watery?

If your chili ends up a bit thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to let excess liquid evaporate. Alternatively, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in gradually to thicken your chili.

Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?

You sure can! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method only enhances the deep flavors of the Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and brings that heartfelt warmth Southern cooking is famous for. So grab your ingredients, dive in, and get ready to share a bowl of pure comfort and joy with family and friends.

Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe

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4.4 from 52 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is a hearty, flavorful stew combining ground beef, beans, and a robust blend of spices. Slow-simmered to perfection, it offers a rich, comforting taste with a hint of smoky heat, perfect for a satisfying meal any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Tomatoes

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

Spices and Seasonings

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids

2 cups beef broth

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Instructions

Brown the ground beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned evenly, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to ensure a cleaner taste and texture.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add beans, tomatoes, and spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
Simmer the chili: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors.
Final seasoning and serving: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

You can omit the cayenne pepper for a milder chili.
For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid.
Add toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired.
To make it spicier, increase the chili powder or add fresh jalapeños in step 2.
Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern American