"Second Place” Chili Recipe

With the autumn season peeking its head around the corner, we decided it’s the perfect time to pull out the old recipe box for this classic and oh-so-delicious “Second Place” Chili Recipe. Nothing says relaxing by the fireplace than a bowl full of hearty and flavorful chili. There is something so comforting about a classic chili recipe, and this one gets the job done.  

Now, don’t let the name fool you, this chili recipe is for sure “First Place” material, although a fun little family competition may say otherwise. 

As soon as the first hint of cooler weather reaches Florida, which many know takes a little while, we are eager to prepare those yummy, comforting dishes that remind us of the cozy days ahead. This “Second Place” Chili Recipe features all the classic chili ingredients with a few surprises thrown in.  

A Few Key Ingredients for "Second Place" Chili

A Few Key Ingredients:

• Spicy Chili Beans – A fun addition if you like a little kick.  

• Tomato Paste – An essential ingredient that brings a rich flavor to the dish. 

• Sugar – A touch of sugar adds the perfect balance.   

As you are preparing your chili dish a little trick to getting the perfect flavor is letting it simmer on your stove for a few hours before serving. This step is crucial to getting that desired flavor since it allows the ingredients to combine to give you the perfect bowl of delicious chili. Trust us, you’ll be coming back for seconds with this one.  

“Second Place” Chili 

Ingredients:

FOR THE CHILI:

• 1 pound ground beef  
• 1 large onion, chopped 
• 1 (35 ounce) can chopped tomatoes  
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste  
• 1 (15 ounce) can spicy chili beans, mostly drained  
• 3 tablespoons chili powder  
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper  
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes  
• 1 tablespoon sugar  
• 1 tablespoon salt  
• 1 teaspoon black pepper  

FOR THE GARNISH:

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated  
• 1 cup sour cream  
• saltine crackers  

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until beef is cooked through and onions are translucent.
2. Drain off fat and return meat mixture to pot.
3. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, and all seasonings {more chili powder if you like it spicy!}. Bring to a boil and reduce heat.
4. Cover and simmer on low, stirring occasionally, for one hour.
5. Stir in beans and continue cooking for 30 minutes longer.
6. Taste and add more seasoning if needed. The longer it sits, the better it is…even better the next day!  
7.  Serve with toppings of cheese and sour cream with a side of saltine crackers for dipping.  

Note: Always grate from the whole block of good quality cheddar for a fresher taste.  

Serve it Up 

	Place each of your favorite chili toppings in a few of our Signature White Ruffle Flare Small Bowls. It's the perfect size for your build-your-own chili station.
Serve up your homemade dish in style thanks to our versatile Fundamental Wood Ruffle Salad Server Set.