Smoky Bourbon Beef Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Smoky Bourbon Beef Chili is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your bowl with bold, stick-to-your-ribs comfort. With its deep, smoky flavor, hearty beef, and rich tomato base, it’s the perfect chili for cozy nights, tailgates, or meal prep.

Bourbon (optional) adds complexity with notes of vanilla and caramel, but don’t worry — you can still enjoy all the flavor without alcohol by using simple substitutes. Whether you go traditional or alcohol-free, this chili is guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs lean ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth

• ¼ cup bourbon (optional)

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp oregano

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1 tbsp brown sugar (or maple syrup)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Alcohol-Free Substitutes (if skipping bourbon):

• 1 tsp non-alcoholic vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup

• Splash of brewed coffee or additional broth for depth

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until soft (5–6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

2. Brown the Beef
   Add ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.

3. Add Spices
   Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Let them toast in the pan for 1 minute for extra flavor.

4. Build the Base
   Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Then pour in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and bourbon (or substitute). Stir to combine.

5. Add Beans & Sweetness
   Stir in black beans, kidney beans, and brown sugar. Bring everything to a simmer.

6. Simmer & Thicken
   Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.

7. Taste & Adjust
   Adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness to taste. If too thick, thin with a bit more broth or water.

8. Serve & Enjoy
   Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or jalapeños. Serve with cornbread or crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Bourbon Chili

• No alcohol? No problem! Use vanilla, brown sugar, and coffee or broth to mimic the complexity bourbon brings.

• Fire-roasted tomatoes add instant smoky flavor.

• Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to help flavors meld.

• Make ahead and freeze in batches — the flavor gets even better with time.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 375

• Protein: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 9g

• Sugar: 6g

Topping Ideas

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Shredded cheddar or pepper jack

• Green onions

• Sliced avocado

• Pickled jalapeños

• Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread crumbles

Storage & Freezer Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Cool completely before freezing in portioned containers. Keeps up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until hot throughout, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! It’s leaner and still delicious. Just note that turkey may need a bit more seasoning for richness.

Is this chili spicy?
It’s mildly spicy with the cayenne. Omit for a milder version or increase if you like heat.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and sauté aromatics first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Can I leave out the beans?
Sure! Add extra ground beef or diced veggies like zucchini or mushrooms instead.

Flavor Variations

• Sweet Bourbon Twist: Add 2 tbsp maple syrup for a sweet-and-smoky profile.

• Chipotle Bourbon Chili: Mix in 1–2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo for heat.

• Coffee-Infused Chili: Replace ¼ cup of the broth with strong brewed coffee.

What to Serve with Bourbon Chili

• Cornbread or corn muffins

• Rice or cauliflower rice

• Baked sweet potatoes

• A crisp green salad

• Tortilla chips with guacamole

Final Thoughts

This Smoky Bourbon Beef Chili is comfort food done right — bold, flavorful, and ready to impress. Whether you stick with the classic version or opt for a no-alcohol alternative, it’s guaranteed to warm you up and earn rave reviews. Double the batch for leftovers, game day, or lazy Sundays, and enjoy every spoonful.