Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe

The Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe is bold, warm and full of flavor. I make this chili when I want comfort with spice.

This Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe has rich meat, beans and peppers. It feels cozy on cold days. Many friends ask how to make Pepper Belly Pete Chili at home.

This guide shares my trusted way. You will also learn ingredients for Pepper Belly Pete Chili and simple tips.

Why I Love Making This Pepper Belly Pete Chili

I love making this chili on lazy evenings. The pot simmers slowly. The smell fills the whole house. It reminds me of game nights and family talks. This chili always brings smiles.

Everyone adjusts toppings to their taste. I enjoy how easy it feels. One pot, simple steps, big flavor. It feels like home cooking at its best.

Equipment List

• Large heavy pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Pepper Belly Pete Chili
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe

• Ground beef: 1½ pounds
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Onion, chopped: 1 large
• Bell peppers, chopped: 2
• Jalapeño, minced: 1
• Garlic cloves, minced: 4
• Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
• Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz)
• Kidney beans, drained: 1 can (15 oz)
• Black beans, drained: 1 can (15 oz)
• Beef broth: 1½ cups
• Chili powder: 2 tablespoons
• Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Heat the Pot

Place pot on medium heat. Add olive oil. Let it warm gently before adding ingredients.

2. Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to pot. Cook until brown. Break meat into small pieces while stirring.

3. Remove Extra Fat

Drain extra grease carefully. This keeps chili rich but not heavy.

4. Add Onions and Peppers

Add chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook five minutes until soft and fragrant.

5. Add Jalapeño and Garlic

Stir in jalapeño and garlic. Cook one minute until smell becomes strong and warm.

6. Stir Tomato Paste

Add tomato paste to pot. Stir well and cook two minutes for deeper flavor.

7. Add Tomatoes

Pour crushed tomatoes into pot. Stir slowly until everything blends smoothly.

8. Add Beans

Add kidney beans and black beans. Stir gently so beans stay whole.

9. Pour in Broth

Add beef broth. Stir and bring mixture to gentle simmer.

10. Add Spices

Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.

11. Simmer Slowly

Lower heat and cover pot. Simmer for forty minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

12. Taste and Adjust

Taste chili carefully. Add more salt or spice if needed.

13. Rest Before Serving

Turn off heat. Let chili rest ten minutes to thicken and settle flavors.

14. Serve Hot

Ladle chili into bowls. Add toppings if desired. Enjoy warm and comforting bites.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey for lighter chili.
• Add corn for sweet crunch.
• Increase jalapeño for more heat.
• Use fire roasted tomatoes for smoky taste.
• Add a splash of lime before serving.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Chili has deep roots in American cooking. It started as simple meat stews. Over time, spices were added.

Each cook made it unique. Pepper Belly Pete Chili celebrates bold pepper flavor. It shows how chili brings people together easily.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

Serve chili with cornbread. Rice works well too. Crackers add crunch. A simple green salad balances heat. Cold drinks pair nicely. These sides keep the meal filling and fun.

Occasion or Event Ideas

Make this chili for game day. Serve it at family gatherings. Great for potlucks. Perfect for cold nights. Easy for meal prep weeks. Everyone can customize their bowl.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store chili in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to four days.
• Freeze portions for three months.
• Reheat slowly on stove.
• Add broth if chili thickens.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	28 g
Fat	22 g
Carbohydrates	26 g
Fiber	7 g

Health Benefits

Pepper Belly Pete Chili provides strong protein. Beans add fiber and help digestion. Peppers supply vitamins.

Homemade chili avoids preservatives. Balanced portions support energy and fullness. It is hearty and nourishing when enjoyed wisely.

FAQs about Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe

Can I make Pepper Belly Pete Chili less spicy?
Yes, reduce jalapeño and chili powder. Use sweet bell peppers only. Flavor stays rich without strong heat.

How do I make Pepper Belly Pete Chili thicker?
Simmer uncovered longer. Chili thickens naturally. You can also mash some beans gently.

Can I cook this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown beef first. Add everything to slow cooker. Cook on low for six hours.

Does Pepper Belly Pete Chili taste better next day?
Yes, flavors deepen overnight. Reheat slowly. Many people enjoy leftovers even more.

What toppings work best with this chili?
Cheese, sour cream, onions and fresh herbs work well. Each topping adds balance and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe is bold, cozy and easy to make. It shows how to make Pepper Belly Pete Chili with simple steps.

Using fresh ingredients for Pepper Belly Pete Chili brings the best taste. Share it with loved ones. This chili always warms hearts and bellies.