Ingredients

2 tbsp Bachan’s Original

2 pounds 80/20 ground beef

2 chili seasoning packets

1 large onion, diced small

1 green bell pepper, diced small

12 oz lager beer

4 cloves garlic, minced

28 oz crushed tomatoes

15 oz tomato sauce

4 oz mild green chilies

1 cinnamon stick

1 can red kidney beans (optional)

Sour cream (for serving)

Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (for serving)

Jalapeños, thinly sliced (for serving)

Extra crispy fast food style fries (for dipping)

Instructions

Step 1: Dice the onion and green bell pepper into small pieces.

Step 2: In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the diced onion and bell pepper for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add 1 chili seasoning packet, beer, mild green chilies, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, cinnamon stick, and red kidney beans (if using) to the Dutch oven. Stir to combine.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef with 2 tablespoons Bachan’s Original and half of a chili seasoning packet. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Shape the seasoned meat into an oval and place it on a wire rack.

Step 6: Set the Dutch oven on the smoker and place the wire rack with the meat on top of the Dutch oven. Smoke at 250°F until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F.

Step 7: Break the smoked meat into bite-size pieces and add it to the Dutch oven. Stir well to combine with the chili mixture.

Step 8: Let the chili simmer gently for 30 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 9: Serve the chili in bowls topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeño slices, and a side of extra crispy fries for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier chili, add extra jalapeños or use a hot chili seasoning packet.

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based substitute for a different protein option.

Omit the kidney beans if you prefer a thicker, bean-free chili.

Using a lager beer adds mild sweetness; try a stout for a richer depth of flavor.

Serve with cornbread as an alternative to fries for a classic touch.

Storage

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this chili without a smoker?

Yes, you can brown the seasoned ground beef in a skillet instead of smoking. While you won’t get the smoky flavor, the chili will still be delicious with the other ingredients.

What if I don’t have Bachan’s Original?

Bachan’s Original is a soy-based seasoning sauce similar to tamari or soy sauce. If unavailable, you can substitute with an equal amount of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor.

Dinner

Smoked Over the Top Chili Recipe

Introduction