Betty Crocker’s Chili Recipe: Hearty Comfort Food

As a chef who’s spent years perfecting Southern comfort food, I’m excited to share this classic Betty Crocker‘s Chili Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and rich flavor profile. With ground beef as the base, you’ll add in aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of spices that create a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and familiar. The result is a chili that’s both flavorful and filling.

To make this chili, you’ll start by browning the ground beef in a large pot, then add in your vegetables and spices. Let it simmer until the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender. This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for leftovers or feeding a crowd.

Serve this chili hot, topped with your favorite fixings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this Betty Crocker-inspired chili is sure to hit the spot. It’s a comforting classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients for Betty Crocker Chili

Gather these comforting ingredients for a hearty chili that’ll warm any chilly evening.

The ground beef matters here. 80/20 or 85/15 gives the best flavor. Most grocery stores have pre-ground, but if you’re buying a chunk to grind yourself, look for chuck or round. I usually grab mine from the regular supermarket for weeknight dinners. For onions, either yellow or white works—just make sure they’re diced nice and small.

No chili powder? Mix paprika, cumin, and cayenne for a decent substitute. San Marzano tomatoes make a difference if you can find them—their lower acidity gives a richer flavor. For beans, you can swap kidney for pinto or black beans if that’s what you’ve got on hand. If using canned beans, give them a good rinse to cut the sodium.

This chili keeps beautifully—4-5 days in the fridge, 3 months in the freezer. I portion mine into containers so lunches are sorted for the week. If you’re making ahead, wait to add fresh toppings until serving—the shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions are best fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Betty Crocker’s Chili Recipe

Let’s make this hearty chili together, following a simple yet delicious method.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the 1.5 lb Ground Beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. I like to use a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven for this – it distributes heat evenly. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks using a wooden spoon or spatula. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and there’s no pink remaining, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to prevent the chili from becoming too greasy.

You’ll know the beef is ready when it’s nicely browned and has a rich, meaty aroma. This step is crucial as it adds depth to the overall flavor of the chili. If you notice any large chunks, break them up further to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Soften the Onion and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and add the 1 whole Onion to the pot. Cook until it’s tender and translucent, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn – you want it soft and fragrant. Once the onion is ready, add the 3 cloves Garlic Cloves and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

The aroma will change as the garlic cooks – you’ll notice a more complex, savory smell. This is your cue that the garlic is ready. If you’re sensitive to garlic, you might want to reduce the amount or cook it for a shorter time.

Step 3: Add Spices and Simmer

Stir in the 2 tbsp Chili Powder, 1 tsp Ground Cumin, 1 tsp Dried Oregano, 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, and 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant. The mixture will start to smell more complex and slightly toasted – that’s when you know the spices are ready.

Next, add the 2 cans Crushed Tomatoes, 1 can Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed), and 1 cup Beef Broth. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, covered, for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the thicker and more flavorful it will become.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

After 30 minutes of simmering, check the chili’s consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more Beef Broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as chopped onions, shredded cheese, or sour cream.

The chili is done when the flavors have melded together and it’s hot and bubbly. You can serve it immediately or let it cool and refrigerate or freeze for later use. Reheat gently before serving.

Perfect Pairings for This betty crocker chili

Classic Comfort Sides

This hearty chili pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its rich flavor. I love serving it with crusty cornbread or warm flour tortillas for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely. You can also offer rice or roasted potatoes for a more filling meal.

Refreshing Beverage Pairings

For drinks, I recommend something crisp and refreshing to balance the chili’s warmth. A cold beer, particularly a crisp lager or hoppy IPA, pairs wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try iced tea with lemon or sparkling water with lime. For a more Southern touch, unsweet tea or sweet tea works beautifully.

Garnish Ideas

Top your chili with a variety of garnishes to add texture and flavor. Popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and chopped cilantro. For some heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with crushed tortilla chips or croutons for added crunch.

Regional Twists

To give your chili a regional twist, consider different toppings or sides inspired by various cuisines. For a Tex-Mex flair, add diced avocado, sour cream, and salsa. For a more Southwestern style, try roasted peppers and fresh cilantro. You can also experiment with different types of hot sauce or spices to match your preferred regional flavors.

Make It a Meal

Turn this chili into a complete meal by pairing it with other comforting dishes. Serve with garlic bread, baked potatoes, or a warm, crusty baguette. For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a simple pasta on the side. This makes for a satisfying and filling dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions