Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe

I tried a version of Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe. This chili is packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, peppers, and bold seasonings that come together to create a thick, hearty meal. Every spoonful delivers a balance of savory meat, smoky spices, and just the right amount of heat.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1 15

Total Time 1 35

Servings: 8 Servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Chili (Ingredients)

Ground beef – 2 pounds
Yellow onion diced – 1 large
Green bell pepper diced – 1
Red bell pepper diced – 1
Jalapeño minced – 1
Garlic minced – 4 cloves
Kidney beans drained – 2 cans (15 oz each)
Diced tomatoes – 2 cans 14.5 oz each
Tomato sauce – 1 can 15 oz
Beef broth – 2 cups
Chili powder – 3 tablespoons
Smoked paprika – 2 teaspoons
Ground cumin – 2 teaspoons
Oregano – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon

Optional Toppings

Shredded cheddar cheese – As needed
Sour cream – As needed
Green onions – As needed
Crushed tortilla chips – As needed

Equipment

Large Dutch oven or stockpot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Ladle

Method

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Add the olive oil to a large Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Onion

Add the diced onion and cook until softened.

Step 3: Add the Peppers

Stir in the bell peppers and jalapeño and cook for several minutes.

Step 4: Add the Garlic

Mix in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 5: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned.

Step 6: Drain Excess Fat

Remove excess grease from the pot if necessary.

Step 7: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Step 8: Add the Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce and stir well.

Step 9: Add the Broth

Pour in the beef broth and mix until combined.

Step 10: Add the Beans

Stir in the drained kidney beans.

Step 11: Bring to a Simmer

Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat.

Step 12: Simmer the Chili

Allow the chili to simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 13: Taste and Adjust

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 14: Serve

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Notes

This Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe pairs beautifully with cornbread, baked potatoes, tortilla chips, rice, and simple green salads.

I personally enjoy serving the Pepper Belly Pete Chili Recipe with warm cornbread because it complements the smoky flavor perfectly.

It’s also delicious spooned over baked potatoes.