game day chili southern living

4 min read 11-03-2025

Meta Description: Get ready for the ultimate game day feast with this hearty, flavorful Game Day Chili recipe inspired by Southern Living. Packed with tender beef, beans, and a secret blend of spices, this chili is sure to be a touchdown at your next gathering! Easy to make, perfect for crowds, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest chili lovers. Get the recipe now!

The Perfect Game Day Chili: A Southern Celebration

Game day gatherings are all about good company, friendly competition, and of course, delicious food. And what better way to fuel your cheering section than with a big pot of hearty, flavorful chili? This recipe takes inspiration from the best of Southern Living, combining classic chili flavors with a few Southern twists to create a truly unforgettable dish. It's the perfect centerpiece for your next game day party, guaranteed to be a touchdown with your guests.

Ingredients for a Crowd-Pleasing Chili

This recipe easily scales up or down, making it perfect for intimate gatherings or large parties. Here's what you'll need:

1.5 lbs Ground Beef: The foundation of any great chili. Opt for a higher fat content for richer flavor.
1 Large Onion, Chopped: Provides sweetness and depth.
2 Green Bell Peppers, Chopped: Adds a touch of freshness and sweetness.
3 cloves Garlic, Minced: Essential for aromatic depth.
2 (28 ounce) cans Crushed Tomatoes: The base for your chili's sauce.
1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce: Adds richness and body.
1 (15 ounce) can Kidney Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Adds heartiness and fiber.
1 (15 ounce) can Pinto Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Adds a different texture and flavor dimension.
1 (15 ounce) can Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Adds another layer of flavor and texture.
1 cup Beef Broth: Adds depth and moisture.
2 tablespoons Chili Powder: The backbone of chili flavor. Experiment with different types for unique profiles!
1 tablespoon Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: A touch of smokiness elevates the flavor.
1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional): For a little kick. Adjust to your spice preference.
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Adds a Mediterranean herbal note.
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds depth to the onion flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Season to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Game Plan for Chili Success

This recipe is surprisingly simple, making it perfect for even busy game days.

1. Browning the Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion and green bell peppers to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Building the Flavor Base:

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas.

4. Simmering to Perfection:

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. Stir occasionally.

5. Season and Serve:

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili fixings—shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Game Day Spread

This chili is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to make it an even more impressive part of your game day spread:

Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing that complements the chili perfectly. Try our recipe for [link to cornbread recipe].
Fritos® Corn Chips: For a fun, crunchy topping.
Toppings Bar: Let guests customize their bowls with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, and more.
Sides: Serve with other game-day favorites like nachos, wings, or dips.

FAQs: Your Chili Questions Answered

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Can I use different types of beans?

A: Yes! Feel free to experiment with other beans like black-eyed peas, great northern beans, or even chickpeas.

Q: How can I make it spicier?

A: Add more cayenne pepper, or use a spicier chili powder. You could also add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

Conclusion: Touchdown with this Game Day Chili

This Southern Living-inspired Game Day Chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients will keep your guests coming back for more. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it's the perfect addition to your next game day celebration. So gather your friends, fire up the grill (or the stovetop!), and get ready to score big with this delicious chili! Remember to share your chili creations with us on social media using #GameDayChili!