Smoked Chili is made using one of the most delicious cooking techniques ever: smoking burgers to crumble and add to homemade chili. This recipe is perfect for cold days and adds a smoky depth of flavor to a classic comfort dish. While it may not be groundbreaking, the smoky twist will elevate your chili game. Trust me, once you try it, you'll never go back to regular ground beef chili again.
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Combine ground beef with 2 tbsp of chili seasoning and form into burger patties. Refrigerate until the smoker is ready.
Preheat the smoker to 225°F. Smoke the burger patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Optionally, add the baby bell peppers to the smoker as well.
Let the smoked burgers rest for about 15 minutes, then crumble them into small pieces. Dice the smoked peppers.
Heat a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat. Drizzle in olive oil and add the diced onions and peppers. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and sauté for about 2 minutes.
Add the crumbled smoked beef, diced peppers, pinto beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, petite diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a slow boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and your choice of Frito's, tortilla chips, or crackers.
Experiment with different types of smoking wood, such as hickory, mesquite, pecan, or cherry, to find your favorite flavor.
Let the smoked burgers rest before crumbling to retain their juices and flavor.
For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork, but the flavor profile will change. Smoking the meat will still add a delicious smoky flavor.
Can I make this chili without a smoker?
Yes, you can cook the burger patties on a grill or stovetop and add a small amount of liquid smoke to the chili for a smoky flavor.
How can I make this chili spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a spicy chili seasoning to increase the heat level.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Yes, let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What toppings go well with smoked chili?
Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, and tortilla chips are great toppings for smoked chili.
A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch
