How many servings does this recipe make?

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

What ingredients do I need for The Best Chili North of the Ohio River?

You need 19 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 lbs lean ground beef, 1 lb chorizo sausage (optional), 1 lb stew meat (optional), 3 medium onions, diced, and more.

Is The Best Chili North of the Ohio River suitable as soups & stews?

Yes, The Best Chili North of the Ohio River falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover The Best Chili North of the Ohio River?

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

The Best Chili North of the Ohio River Recipe

Name: The Best Chili North of the Ohio River
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs lean ground beef; 1 lb chorizo sausage (optional); 1 lb stew meat (optional); 3 medium onions, diced; 3 garlic cloves; 45 ounces tomato juice; 1 cup water; 3 -4 chipotle chiles in adobo; 3 green peppers, chunked (optional); 6 tablespoons chili powder (to taste); 12 ounces ale (optional); 2 tablespoons cocoa (optional); 1 cup strong black coffee (optional); ½ cup salsa verde (optional); 60 ounces dark red kidney beans (I prefer to use a mixture of kidney black pinto, and red beans); 1 cup fresh cilantro (optional); 1 tablespoon sugar (to even out the acidity); 2 tablespoons masa corn flour (optional) or 2 tablespoons flour (optional); 2 tablespoons water (optional)

Warm up with this hearty The Best Chili North of the Ohio River recipe. Made with lean ground beef, chorizo sausage, stew meat and onions. Easy step-by-…

This The Best Chili North of the Ohio River relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as lean ground beef, chorizo sausage (optional), stew meat (optional) and medium onions, diced. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 1405 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It works as a light main on its own or as a starter alongside crusty bread, and it's just as good for a cozy night in as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers keep well, so it's a smart choice for meal prep too.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Soups & Stews

1405

kcal

Calories

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

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

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

My Personal Notes

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The Best Chili North of the Ohio River

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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