Clyde’s Chili Recipe is a timeless classic that brings bold flavors and hearty comfort to the table. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking to impress friends at your next gathering, this chili delivers a perfect balance of spices, rich meat, and savory goodness.
We love how Clyde’s recipe combines simple ingredients with a few secret touches to create a chili that’s both satisfying and unforgettable. It’s easy to make and perfect for anyone who wants a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to warm up with a bowl of chili that’s packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite.
Clyde’s Chili Recipe
To create Clyde’s Chili with its signature bold flavors and comforting warmth, we follow a straightforward process that builds depth and richness from simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for cozy meals or lively gatherings, delivering a satisfying and memorable bowl each time.
Ingredients Preparation
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for balanced fat)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Beef:
Increase heat to medium-high. Add the 2 pounds of ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Add Spices and Mix:
Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans:
Pour in the 2 cans of diced tomatoes with juices. Add both kidney and black beans. Mix thoroughly to combine all elements.
- Simmer with Broth:
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth. Season with salt and black pepper as needed. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let it simmer gently for at least 45 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the chili. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne if you desire more heat. Simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes if the mixture needs thickening.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 2 lbs | Preferably 80/20 fat |
| Onion | 1 large | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Diced tomatoes | 2 cans (14.5 oz each) | With juices |
| Kidney beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained and rinsed |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained and rinsed |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp | |
| Cumin | 1 tbsp | |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | |
| Oregano | 1 tsp | |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ tsp | Adjust for heat |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
“The magic of Clyde’s Chili lies in its perfect balance of spices and slow simmering, which turns simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful and hearty dish.”
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot topped with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete and cozy meal experience.
This method ensures every bite of Clyde’s Chili delivers that comforting warmth and bold flavor we appreciate and strive for in the perfect chili recipe.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Clyde’s Chili Recipe, we rely on a thoughtful selection of ingredients that build its bold flavor and comforting warmth. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the rich, hearty texture and memorable aroma we desire.
Here’s what we’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 2 pounds | Lean, 80/20 blend preferred |
| Yellow onion | 1 large | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | Minced |
| Chili powder | 3 tablespoons | Use a quality, smoky chili powder |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons | Freshly ground for best flavor |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Smoked paprika enhances depth |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Adjust for desired heat |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Adds herbal brightness |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces (1 can) | Preferably fire-roasted |
| Tomato sauce | 15 ounces (1 can) | Adds richness |
| Kidney beans | 2 cans (15 ounces each) | Drained and rinsed thoroughly |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | Enhances savory depth |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Optional toppings | Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions | For garnish |
We begin by sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened and fragrant. This foundation allows the aromatic spices—chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, and oregano—to bloom and release their complex flavors when added next.
Using quality ground beef ensures the chili’s texture remains juicy and hearty after browning it evenly in the pan. The combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce creates a deep, tangy base, while kidney beans add creamy texture and heartiness.
To meld everything together beautifully, we add beef broth, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This precise layering of ingredients and measurements guarantees that the bold, savory profile associated with Clyde’s Chili comes through with every spoonful.
Our careful balance of spices and quality components elevates this chili above ordinary recipes, making it a trusted favorite for gatherings and cozy meals alike.
Equipment Needed
To make Clyde’s Chili Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment on hand streamlines the process and ensures each step is executed with ease and precision.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large stockpot: This is crucial for even heat distribution and slow simmering, allowing flavors to meld beautifully without burning.
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef separately before adding it to the pot, which helps develop a richer flavor.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For finely chopping onions and garlic, which form the aromatic base of our chili.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe, clean surface for prepping ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: To stir the chili as it cooks and prevent sticking.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurement of spices and liquids, which is key to achieving the signature boldness of Clyde’s Chili.
Optional but Helpful
- Can opener: For easily opening canned beans and tomatoes.
- Ladle: For serving chili cleanly without mess.
- Food thermometer: To verify ground beef reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) if desired.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch oven/stockpot | Slow simmering and flavor melding | Essential |
| Large skillet | Browning meat separately | Essential |
| Chef’s knife | Precise chopping of aromatics | Essential |
| Cutting board | Safe prepping surface | Essential |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring without scratching | Essential |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurate spice and liquid measurement | Essential |
| Can opener | Opening canned ingredients | Helpful |
| Ladle | Mess-free serving | Helpful |
| Food thermometer | Ensuring safe meat temperature | Optional |
Using this set of equipment guarantees we maintain the integrity of Clyde’s Chili Recipe, achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this chili a memorable meal for any occasion.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking Clyde’s Chili, proper Prep Work ensures a smooth process and maximizes flavor. Focusing on detailed preparation of vegetables, precise spice measurement, and properly cooking the meat sets the foundation for this classic dish.
Preparing the Vegetables
First, we prepare the aromatic vegetables that form the chili’s savory base.
- Onions: Peel and finely dice 1 large yellow onion for a sweet, mellow flavor.
- Garlic: Mince 3-4 garlic cloves to release their pungent aroma.
- Optional Peppers: If using jalapeños or bell peppers, deseed and finely chop 1-2 peppers for a mild heat or sweetness.
Pro tip: Uniform chopping ensures even cooking and prevents any overpowering chunks in the chili.
Measuring the Spices
Precision in measuring spices is key to balancing the bold flavors in Clyde’s Chili. Use measuring spoons for accuracy. Here’s a handy table for the most used spices:
| Spice | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chili powder | 3 tablespoons | Smoky depth |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons | Earthy warmth |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle sweetness |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon | Herbaceous note |
| Cayenne pepper | ½ teaspoon (optional) | Adjust heat level as desired |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon | Enhances overall flavor |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
Remember, layering spices during cooking enhances complexity and richness in the final dish.
Cooking the Meat
Cooking the ground beef properly is essential for texture and flavor in Clyde’s Chili. We recommend using 80/20 ground beef for optimal fat content.
Steps to follow:
- Heat a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until the beef is browned evenly and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat carefully to prevent greasiness but retain some for flavor.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper during cooking to build the meat’s base flavor.
Tip: Browning the meat well adds caramelized notes that deepen the chili’s overall taste.
By completing these prep steps thoroughly, we set the stage for combining ingredients seamlessly and creating the rich, hearty Clyde’s Chili that everyone loves.
Cooking Instructions
We will guide you through Clyde’s Chili Recipe with clear steps to ensure a rich and hearty result. Follow each phase carefully for the bold flavors and satisfying warmth that define this classic chili.
Browning the Meat
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add 2 pounds of 80/20 ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Cook the beef until browned and no longer pink, about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness but leave a little to carry the flavors.
- Season the browned meat lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the natural taste.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same pot with the beef, add 1 large diced onion and 3 cloves minced garlic.
- Stir and cook over medium heat until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
- If using optional 1 diced bell pepper or jalapeño, add it now and sauté for an additional 3 minutes.
- This softening step releases the aromatic base essential for the chili’s depth.
Combining Ingredients
- Sprinkle in the carefully measured spices from our table below to toast them slightly and boost their fragrance.
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chili powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Stir spices thoroughly with the meat and vegetables for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in 2 cans (28 ounces each) of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Add 1 can (15 ounces) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed.
- Season with 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon tomato paste to enrich umami.
- Mix everything well, ensuring no clumps or dry spices remain.
Simmering the Chili
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low for a gentle simmer.
- Cover partially with a lid, allowing steam to escape and flavors to meld perfectly.
- Let the chili simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust salt and spice levels to taste near the end of cooking.
- The slow simmer transforms simple ingredients into Clyde’s signature bold and comforting chili.
“Simmering slowly is the secret that lets the flavors marry and the chili develop that rich depth we all crave.”
Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar or sour cream and sides such as crusty bread or cornbread for an ultimate meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy Clyde’s Chili Recipe, we recommend serving it piping hot with a variety of complementary toppings and sides that enhance its bold, savory flavors.
Toppings to Elevate Flavor and Texture
Adding fresh and creamy toppings creates contrast and highlights the chili’s rich depth. Consider these classic options:
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the warm chili, adding sharpness.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Provides cool creaminess to balance the spices.
- Sliced jalapeños or diced green chilies: Boosts heat for those who prefer a spicier kick.
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro: Adds freshness and a hint of herbal brightness.
- Avocado slices or guacamole: Introduces buttery texture and mild richness.
Ideal Side Dishes for a Complete Meal
Pairing the chili with hearty sides rounds out the experience:
| Side Dish | Serving Suggestion | Flavor/Texture Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cornbread | Warm, buttery, and slightly sweet | Soft crumb contrasts chili’s texture; balances spice |
| Crusty bread | Rustic sourdough or French baguette | Crunchy exterior with chewy inside adds bite |
| Steamed rice | White or brown, as a chili base | Mild flavor dilutes chili intensity for a gentler bite |
| Tortilla chips | For scooping or layering on top | Adds crispness and salty crunch |
Presentation Tips
- Serve the chili in deep bowls to keep it warm longer.
- Offer bowls of toppings separately so guests can customize their bowls to taste.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a lime wedge for visual appeal and added zest.
“The magic of Clyde’s Chili truly shines when we personalize it with our favorite toppings and sides, elevating every spoonful into a memorable bite.”
By combining these serving ideas, we transform our chili into a satisfying, flavorful feast perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings where comfort and boldness take center stage.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To fully enjoy Clyde’s Chili Recipe at its best, we recommend preparing it in advance and storing it properly. This helps the flavors deepen and makes mealtime stress-free.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the chili up to two days before serving. After simmering, allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Transfer the chili into an airtight container and refrigerate.
- When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain the perfect consistency.
- For large gatherings, consider making the chili one day before to allow the spices and herbs to meld deeply, enriching the taste.
Freezing Tips
- Clyde’s Chili freezes beautifully! After cooling, place the chili in heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding extra liquid if needed, stirring frequently.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Use airtight containers, reheat gently |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Cool completely, thaw overnight |
Serving After Storage
- Reheated Clyde’s Chili tastes even better as the flavors have more time to develop.
- Freshen it up with toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh herbs just before serving.
- Pair with warm cornbread or crusty bread to complete the meal.
Safety Note
“Always cool the chili within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.”
Let’s maximize the rich flavor and convenience of Clyde’s Chili by planning ahead with these effective make-ahead and storage tips.
Conclusion
Clyde’s Chili Recipe is a reliable go-to for anyone craving a hearty and flavorful meal. Its thoughtful blend of spices and quality ingredients creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying every time. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this chili delivers warmth and bold taste with ease.
We love how simple it is to prepare and how well it holds up for make-ahead meals or leftovers. With a few toppings and sides, it transforms into a complete experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Give Clyde’s Chili a try and enjoy a classic recipe that brings people together around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Clyde’s Chili recipe special?
Clyde’s Chili stands out for its perfect balance of bold spices, quality ground beef, and savory ingredients. Its slow simmering process melds the flavors deeply, creating a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and great for gatherings.
What are the main ingredients in Clyde’s Chili?
Key ingredients include 80/20 ground beef, smoky chili powder, fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, onions, garlic, beans, and a blend of spices. Each adds to the chili’s flavor, texture, and overall heartiness.
How do I prepare Clyde’s Chili?
Start by browning the ground beef, then sauté onions and garlic. Add spices to build flavor before mixing in tomatoes and beans. Let the chili simmer slowly to develop depth and richness.
Can I make Clyde’s Chili ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili up to two days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For best flavor, making it a day ahead is recommended to allow the spices to meld.
How should I store leftover chili?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days or freeze for up to three months. Cool the chili promptly before refrigerating to keep it safe.
What are the best toppings and sides for Clyde’s Chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and fresh herbs. Ideal sides are cornbread, crusty bread, steamed rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Does reheated chili taste good?
Yes, reheated chili often tastes better because the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat until warm and freshen it up with your favorite toppings before serving.
What type of meat is best for this recipe?
Using 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is best, as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness to keep the chili rich and tender.
How long should I simmer Clyde’s Chili?
Simmer the chili for at least 30 to 45 minutes to ensure flavors meld fully. Slow simmering is key to achieving the dish’s deep, robust taste.
Can I customize the spice level in Clyde’s Chili?
Absolutely. Adjust the amount of chili powder, jalapeños, or other spices to suit your preferred heat level without compromising the original flavor balance.