Embrace the ultimate comfort of a hearty, one-pan beef and bacon chili that will warm your soul and delight your senses. Crafted with the refined touch of Chef Crenn, this cozy dish is a celebration of elegant indulgence and sensory-rich flavors, perfect for a satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Cozy One-Pan Beef and Bacon Chili for a Hearty Dinner
Infused with the irresistible aroma of sizzling bacon and the robust flavors of tender beef, this one-pan chili is a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to a state of pure, joyful indulgence. The graceful balance of spices, the luscious texture, and the rich, comforting warmth make this dish a true delight for the senses. Prepared with the skilled hand of Chef Crenn, this cozy chili is a testament to the power of elegant simplicity, where every ingredient shines and every bite leaves you craving more.
Ingredients
Elevate your chili experience with a carefully curated selection of high-quality ingredients. From the juicy ground beef and the delectable bacon to the medley of aromatic spices and the perfect blend of tomatoes, each component plays a vital role in creating the ultimate comfort food masterpiece.
- 1 lb – Ground Beef
- 8 oz – Thick-Cut Bacon, chopped
- 1 large – Yellow Onion, diced
- 3 cloves – Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp – Chili Powder
- 1 tsp – Ground Cumin
- 1 tsp – Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 tsp – Ground Cinnamon
- 1 (28 oz) can – Crushed Tomatoes
- 2 tbsp – Tomato Paste
- 1 cup – Beef Broth
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Ground Turkey or Plant-Based Crumbles — a refined swap that keeps the balance.
- Chili Powder: Smoked Paprika and Cayenne Pepper — perfect for dietary or texture variation.
How to Make Cozy One-Pan Beef and Bacon Chili for a Hearty Dinner
Begin your culinary journey by meticulously preparing the ingredients. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces, ensuring every element is ready to seamlessly come together.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Begin your culinary journey by meticulously preparing the ingredients. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces, ensuring every element is ready to seamlessly come together.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy and golden brown. Drain the excess fat, leaving a thin coating in the pan to sear the beef. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Introduce the onions and garlic, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Elevate the dish with a symphony of spices, including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of cinnamon for a delicate warmth. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to simmer until thickened to your desired consistency. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
For an extra layer of indulgence, garnish the cozy one-pan beef and bacon chili with a dollop of creamy sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkling of chopped cilantro or green onions.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful kick of heat.
- Lighten It Up: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, yet equally satisfying option.
- Enrich the Flavor: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to enhance the richness.
- Bean Variations: Experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney, black, or pinto, to add texture and depth.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Make-Ahead: The chili’s flavors actually improve over time, so feel free to make it a day or two in advance.
Nutrition Information
This cozy one-pan beef and bacon chili is a hearty and satisfying dish that also provides a nutritional boost. Each serving is a rich source of protein, thanks to the ground beef and bacon, as well as a variety of essential vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes, onions, and spices.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbs: 16 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! The chili can be easily adapted to accommodate different protein sources. Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be used in place of the ground beef, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying option.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add a delightful kick of heat, consider incorporating a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired level of spiciness.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this cozy one-pan beef and bacon chili is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. The flavors actually improve over time, so feel free to make it a day or two in advance. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
What can I serve with the chili?
The chili pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy cornbread, alongside crispy tortilla chips, or with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Can I freeze the leftover chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes exceptionally well, making it a convenient option for quick, comforting dinners on busy nights. Store the chili in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Cozy One-Pan Beef and Bacon Chili for a Hearty Dinner
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Warm up your evenings with this cozy one-pan beef and bacon chili. It’s a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for a hearty dinner that brings comfort and elegance to your table.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4 oz bacon, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Stir in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: One-Pan & Skillet Dinners
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg