Idaho Chili

Idaho Chili is not complicated, it's just hearty, thick and meaty. Make this your go-to, scratch-made family chili recipe! I think it's the perfect combination of meat, beans and a sauce that's seasoned with just the right amount of spice. I make this at least two or three times a month and serve it with either tortillas or cornbread. It's the best chili.

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Ingredients to have on hand

• ground beef
• onion
• canned diced tomatoes
• tomato paste
• canned Rotel diced tomatoes, with green chilies
• four varieties of canned beans (use your favorites!)

Spices for the best chili

• chili powder
• cumin
• oregano
• cayenne pepper, just a dash
• salt
• black pepper

Top Tips and FAQ

Season the Meat First

This is such an easy to chili to make, right on the stove. Don't let the list of spices discourage you. They are easy spices to keep on hand and you'll use them again and again.

Here's a little trick to bring out the most of the seasoning - add the spices after the meat is browned and before you add the tomatoes and beans.

Allow a few minutes for the spices to steam with the meat and onions before adding the beans and the rest of the ingredients.

Use a Variety of Beans

One of my favorite things about Idaho chili is you can use whatever combination of canned beans you have in the pantry. Beans are so versatile.

According to the Idaho Bean Commission, you can substitute one type of bean for most other beans in any recipe. The only exception is a variety like black beans which may add a slightly different taste and color. I've used many varieties of beans when I make my chili, but I think kidney beans, chili beans, great northern and pinto beans create the best balance of flavor.

Serving Chili

I am a big fan of always serving chili in big bowls. Presentation does matter, even with something as simple as chili. A big bowl allows for plenty of space for a generous helping, plus lots of room for toppings.

I've looked and looked but can't find the exact chili bowls that I use, probably since I've had them for so many years. But I found these online and they are very similar to mine. The bowls come in handy for lots of things besides chili. I use them for soup, stew, or any one-dish dinner entree.

What are good chili toppings?

There are so many choices! Here are toppings popular in my family:

• shredded cheese
• diced onion
• saltine crackers
• diced jalapeno peppers
• fresh salsa
• diced fresh tomato
• sour cream
• non-fat greek yogurt

Hearty Meal Ideas

Idaho Chili a hearty chili recipe and making it might get you in the mood for other main meals that have a way of inspiring a cozy feeling at dinner time.

I just love Baked Beef Burritos and like chili, there are always plenty of leftovers.

My kids and husband often request Quick Cheeseburger Pie. It has a pat-in-the-pan crust that is fun to make and the pie really does taste like a cheeseburger.

If you are in the mood for pasta, my Tomato-Cream Sauce is the perfect topping. It's a made from scratch red sauce that's easy enough to make even on a work night.

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