Dad’s Award-Winning Secret Ingredient Chili Recipe
Introduction
This award-winning chili recipe is packed with bold flavors and a secret ingredient that sets it apart. Hearty ground beef, beans, and a touch of chocolate and coffee create a rich, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 (28 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15.5 oz) can dark red kidney beans
- 1 can MILD Bush’s chili starter
- 1 tsp dried chopped onion
- 1 can black beans
- 1 package chili seasoning mix
- 1 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- 1 tbsp coffee grounds
- 1/2 – 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp sugar
- 1 (12 oz) can or bottle larger style beer
- 1 can sweet corn kernels, drained
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, stirring to break it up as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain excess grease and return the meat to the pot.
- Step 2: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili starter, dried onion, black beans, chili seasoning mix, semi-sweet chocolate, coffee grounds, garlic powder, sugar, beer, and sweet corn to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 3: Bring the chili to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: If the chili becomes too thick during cooking, add water or beef broth to reach your preferred consistency.
- Step 5: Serve hot, ladling the chili into bowls and topping with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier chili, use a medium or hot chili starter instead of mild.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without losing flavor.
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors.
- Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
Storage
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the beef and combining all ingredients, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours for best results.
What does the chocolate and coffee add to the chili?
The semi-sweet chocolate and coffee deepen the chili’s flavor, adding rich complexity and a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness and spices, making the dish truly memorable.
PrintDad’s Award-Winning Secret Ingredient Chili Recipe
Dad’s Award Winning Secret Ingredient Chili is a hearty, flavorful chili recipe that combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and unique additions like semi-sweet chocolate and coffee grounds to create a rich, complex taste. Slow-simmered for three hours, this chili is perfect for family gatherings or cozy meals, delivering a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 lbs ground beef
Vegetables & Beans
- 2 28 oz cans diced tomatoes
- 1 15.5 oz can dark red kidney beans
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can sweet corn kernels, drained
- 1 tsp dried chopped onion
Seasonings & Additions
- 1 can MILD Bush’s chili starter
- 1 pkg chili seasoning mix
- 1 oz semi sweet chocolate
- 1 tbsp coffee grounds
- 1/2–1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp sugar
Liquids
- 1 12 oz can (or bottle) lager style beer
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook it while stirring frequently to break up the meat. Continue browning until the beef is fully cooked through. Once cooked, strain off any excess grease and return the beef to the pot.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the two cans of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, sweet corn, dried chopped onion, MILD Bush’s chili starter, chili seasoning mix, semi-sweet chocolate, coffee grounds, garlic powder, sugar, and the lager beer. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low or medium-low so the chili is gently simmering. Cover the pot partially if desired, and cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During cooking, add water or beef broth if the chili becomes too thick for your preference.
- Serve: After simmering, ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or fresh cilantro, as desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Using semi-sweet chocolate and coffee grounds adds a unique depth and richness to the chili’s flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier chili, consider using a spicy chili starter instead of mild.
- Simmering for a full 3 hours allows flavors to fully meld and intensify.
- Adjust thickness by adding water or broth during simmering if needed.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the chili seasoning mix and beer are gluten-free.
Keywords: chili, ground beef chili, secret ingredient chili, chocolate chili, coffee chili, slow simmer chili, hearty chili, comfort food
