Smoky Beef-and-Bacon Chili Recipe

Name: Smoky Beef-and-Bacon Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 slices thick-cut bacon, finely chopped; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 1 large garlic clove, minced; 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef; 1 T plus 1 1/2 t chili powder; 1 1/2 t ground cumin; 1 1/2 t smoked Spanish paprika; 1/2 t to 1 1/2 t cayenne pepper; ~ 1 t salt; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes (or regular); 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup beer (India Pale Ale or pilsner); 1 t Worcestershire; 1 can (14.5 oz) pinto beans, drained; sour cream, sliced scallions, and/or grated cheddar for topping

Servings: persons

2 slices thick-cut bacon, finely chopped
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 T plus 1 1/2 t chili powder
1 1/2 t ground cumin
1 1/2 t smoked Spanish paprika
1/2 t to 1 1/2 t cayenne pepper
~ 1 t salt
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes (or regular)
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beer (India Pale Ale or pilsner)
1 t Worcestershire
1 can (14.5 oz) pinto beans, drained
sour cream, sliced scallions, and/or grated cheddar for topping

1
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, cook bacon, stirring until it just begins to brown, about 4 minutes.
2
Add onion, lower heat to medium, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, 4 to 7 minutes.
3
Uncover pan, stir in garlic, and cook 1 minute.
4
Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef; break it up with a wooden spoon and stir gently until lit loses its raw color, 6 to 8 minutes.
5
Stir in spices and 1 t salt and cook 1 minute.
6
Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, beer, and Worcestershire and bring to a boil.
7
Reduce heat to medium low, cover partially, and cook 30 minutes.
8
Add beans and cook 10 minutes, uncovered.
9
Season to taste with additional salt.
10
Serve warm, with toppings on the side.

993

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 15 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 slices thick-cut bacon, finely chopped, 1 large onion, finely chopped, 1 large garlic clove, minced, 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef, and more.

Yes, Smoky Beef-and-Bacon Chili Recipe falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!