If you’re craving something deeply comforting with a kiss of Southern spice, this Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is exactly what you need. Brimming with hearty beef and pork, two kinds of beans, and a rich, smoky tomato base, this chili is a bowlful of pure soul food joy. With just the right balance of heat and sweetness, every spoonful delivers robust flavor and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re making it for game day, a cozy family dinner, or your next friendly cook-off, this recipe promises warmth, satisfaction, and serious flavor cred.

Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili lies in its straightforward but purposeful ingredients—each one plays a vital role in creating that signature, crave-worthy taste. From the foundation of tender meats to the aromatic veggies and just the right blend of spices, these pantry staples come together for a chili that’s truly unforgettable.

Ground Beef (1 pound): Brings hearty flavor and classic chili texture as the main protein base.
Ground Pork (½ pound): Adds extra juiciness and a subtle richness that sets this chili apart.
Onion (1 small, diced): Lends sweetness and depth; sautéing it brings out savory notes.
Green Bell Pepper (1, diced): Provides a pop of color and a mild, garden-fresh flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the chili with aromatic warmth and savory undertones.
Kidney Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Classic chili bean that soaks up all the spices.
Black Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Adds extra heartiness and a creamy bite.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Forms the chunky, tangy base of the sauce.
Tomato Sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Gives the chili a smooth, cohesive texture and rich tomato flavor.
Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato richness and helps thicken the chili.
Chili Powder (1 tablespoon): Builds the foundational chili flavor and warmth.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle smokiness that’s key for that soul chili vibe.
Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy undertones and classic chili depth.
Cayenne Pepper (½ teaspoon, optional): Delivers a fiery kick for those who love extra heat.
Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances acidity and spice with a hint of sweetness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and rounds out the spices.
Brewed Coffee or Beef Broth (¼ cup): Deepens the sauce with a subtle, savory undertone.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami and complexity that keeps you coming back for more.
Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon, optional): Offers an extra layer of heat and tang if you like it spicy.

How to Make Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and pork, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown deeply—those little caramelized bits at the bottom are gold for flavor! Once the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain off the excess grease to keep your chili rich but not greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic right into the pot with the browned meat. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies soften and your kitchen smells like chili heaven. This step is all about building layers of flavor that make this dish so irresistible.

Step 3: Bloom the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if you want more heat), brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, letting the spices toast and “bloom” for about a minute. This quick extra step releases the oils in your spices, intensifying their flavor and aroma—one of the secrets behind that soulful chili punch!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Sauces

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, brewed coffee or beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce if you’re feeling bold. Give the pot a thorough stir so all the elements mingle. You’ll see the chili start to look thick, chunky, and inviting right away.

Step 5: Simmer for Soulful Flavor

Reduce the heat to low and partially cover the pot. Let your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili simmer for at least 45 minutes, giving it a stir every so often. This gentle cooking lets the flavors meld and the sauce thicken beautifully. If you have the time, let it go for up to 2 hours—the flavor only gets deeper and better.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste your chili and add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce as needed. The best chili is the one that perfectly suits your palate, so don’t be shy about making it your own. Now it’s time to ladle up and enjoy!

How to Serve Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili

Garnishes

A bowl of Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is the perfect canvas for a generous sprinkle of toppings. Try shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream, and a scattering of chopped green onions. Fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, or crunchy corn chips add extra flair and texture if you want to take it over the top.

Side Dishes

Chili is made even more comforting with the right sides. Classic cornbread (sweet or savory) is a Southern staple and perfect for dunking. You can also serve your chili with fluffy white rice, saltine crackers, or even a baked potato. Each side soaks up that savory sauce and makes every bite feel like home.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or weeknight fun, try serving your Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili in bread bowls, layered over crispy waffle fries, or as a topping for loaded nachos. Mini cups are a hit at gatherings, and chili dogs or chili-topped mac and cheese are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Let your imagination run wild—the possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili keeps beautifully in the fridge. Let it cool completely after cooking, then transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days—perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Freezing

This chili is a freezer superstar! Portion cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers (leave a little room for expansion), and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen for a speedy dinner anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also use the microwave—just cover and heat in bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems extra thick.

FAQs

Can I make Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown your meats first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, and you’ll be rewarded with chili that’s rich, thick, and deeply flavorful.

What’s the best way to make this chili milder or spicier?

To make it milder, simply skip the cayenne pepper and hot sauce, or use a mild chili powder. For more heat, double the cayenne, add extra hot sauce, or stir in fresh chopped jalapeños at the end. Tailor it to your spice comfort!

Can I use different types of beans?

Definitely! Feel free to substitute pinto beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas if you prefer. The blend of beans adds texture and personality, so mix and match to your heart’s content.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, as written, Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is naturally gluten-free! Just check that your Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce don’t contain any hidden gluten if you’re sensitive.

What’s the secret to even deeper chili flavor?

Letting the chili simmer longer (up to 2 hours) really brings out its best. Using brewed coffee or beef broth as the liquid also layers in a subtle richness you’ll love. And don’t forget to let it sit overnight—flavors deepen beautifully by the next day.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a pot of Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili bubbling on the stove—it’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it your own family favorite. Grab a spoon, invite your loved ones, and let the good times (and great chili) roll!

Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish combining ground beef and pork with a rich blend of spices, beans, and tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting meal, it offers a deep, smoky taste with a hint of sweetness and a touch of heat, making it a Southern favorite that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

1 pound ground beef
½ pound ground pork

Vegetables

1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices and Seasonings

1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Liquids

¼ cup brewed coffee or beef broth

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Instructions

Cook the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef and pork until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease to keep the chili from being too oily.
Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, which helps build the base flavor.
Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for 1 minute to bloom the spices and enhance their flavors.
Combine Main Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, brewed coffee or beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the chili simmer gently for at least 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and let the flavors meld beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or heat level if needed. Serve the chili hot, pairing it with cornbread, crackers, or over rice. Top optionally with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added richness and freshness.

Notes

For deeper flavor, simmer the chili for up to 2 hours to let the ingredients fully meld.
This recipe works great in a slow cooker—brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
You can substitute ground turkey or all beef instead of the beef and pork mix if preferred.
Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce quantities to customize the chili’s heat level.
Serve with your favorite chili toppings to create a personalized dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern American