Brick Chili Recipe Easy and Delicious Homemade Flavor

Discover the bold and hearty flavors of a classic brick chili recipe that’s perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting bowl of chili. This recipe gets its name from the traditional method of pressing and “bricking” the chili, giving it a dense, rich texture that’s packed with layers of smoky, spicy, and savory goodness.

Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or a first-timer, this dish promises to deliver a satisfying and memorable meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

With a perfect balance of tender beef, beans, and spices, this brick chili is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and customize. The slow-cooked ingredients meld beautifully, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences or dietary needs. Keep reading to learn the secrets to making this delicious brick chili, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to elevate your chili game!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brick chili recipe stands out for its unique texture and deeply developed flavors. Unlike typical chili, the “brick” method creates a thick, hearty consistency that’s perfect for slicing or scooping up with your favorite sides.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich, smoky flavor: Slow cooking infuses the chili with a robust smoky aroma, thanks to the combination of chili powders and smoked paprika.
• Hearty and filling: The mixture of ground beef, beans, and vegetables results in a satisfying dish that’s great for any season.
• Customizable heat level: Adjust the spices to suit your preferred spice tolerance—from mild warmth to fiery heat.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
• Perfect for leftovers: The brick form allows you to slice and reheat portions easily without losing that classic chili texture.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and moisture)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Large bowl (for mixing)
• Loaf pan or square baking dish (for pressing the chili into a brick)
• Plastic wrap or foil
• Serving bowls and utensils

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper finely. Drain and rinse the kidney beans thoroughly.
2. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add spices: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
5. Incorporate liquids and beans: Add the diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Press into a brick: Once the chili has thickened, transfer it into a loaf pan or square baking dish lined with plastic wrap or foil. Press firmly to compact the chili evenly.
8. Chill and set: Cover the chili with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chili will firm up into a brick-like shape.
9. Serve: Remove the chili brick from the pan, slice into portions, and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Top with your favorite garnishes and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For a deeper smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke during the simmering stage. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.”

• Spice it up: Increase cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
• Beans variety: Mix kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans for a more diverse texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Ensure your broth and tomato paste are gluten-free certified.
• Slow cooker option: Brown beef and sauté veggies as directed, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours before pressing into a brick.
• Cheesy twist: Stir shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the chili just before pressing into the pan for a melty surprise.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This brick chili pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings to round out your meal. Consider serving it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.

Top your chili slices or bowls with:

• Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh chopped green onions or cilantro
• Jalapeño slices for extra heat
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Serve over steamed rice or baked potatoes for a hearty meal

For a lighter side, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the rich chili flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

The brick chili recipe is a flavorful, comforting dish that offers something a little different from traditional chili. Its dense, sliceable texture and smoky, robust flavor make it ideal for both casual dinners and special gatherings.

This recipe allows for plenty of customization, so you can adjust the spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Whether you enjoy it fresh from the pot or pressed into a brick and sliced for leftovers, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to explore other delicious and easy recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious to keep your culinary adventures exciting!

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