Frisch’s Chili, a name synonymous with comfort food and hearty flavors, has been a staple in many households for generations. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was immediately drawn to its simplicity and the promise of a classic, no-fuss chili. And let me tell you, it delivered! From the moment the aroma of sautéed onions and browning beef filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. My family, chili aficionados in their own right, absolutely devoured it. The rich, savory broth, the tender ground beef, and the perfect balance of spices – it was a symphony of flavors that left us wanting more. This isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a taste of home, a warm embrace in a bowl, and a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation, just as it has in mine. Whether you’re a seasoned chili cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Frisch’s Chili recipe is approachable, rewarding, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

To embark on your Frisch’s Chili culinary adventure, you’ll need to gather a collection of readily available ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors that define this beloved dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the chili’s texture, depth, and overall comforting character. Let’s delve into each component and understand its significance:

2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil forms the foundation of our chili, acting as the cooking medium and imparting a subtle fruity note. It’s essential for sautéing the onions and garlic, drawing out their aromatic compounds and creating a flavorful base for the entire dish. While olive oil is recommended for its health benefits and mild flavor, you can substitute it with other cooking oils like vegetable oil or canola oil if preferred. The key is to choose an oil with a neutral flavor profile that won’t overpower the chili’s inherent tastes. For a richer, more robust flavor, consider using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
1 large onion, chopped: Onions are the unsung heroes of countless savory dishes, and chili is no exception. A large onion, finely chopped, provides a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth. As it sautés in the olive oil, the onion softens and caramelizes slightly, releasing its natural sugars and building a savory base for the chili. Yellow onions are the classic choice for chili due to their balanced flavor, but you can also experiment with white onions for a sharper bite or sweet onions for a milder sweetness. Ensure the onion is chopped uniformly to ensure even cooking and prevent any pieces from remaining crunchy in the final dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic, the pungent powerhouse of the kitchen, adds a layer of aromatic complexity and savory depth to Frisch’s Chili. Two cloves, minced finely, are sufficient to infuse the chili with its characteristic garlicky notes without being overpowering. Minced garlic releases its flavors more readily than chopped or sliced garlic, ensuring even distribution throughout the chili. For those who adore garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar, though the flavor may be slightly less intense.
1 pound ground beef: Ground beef is the heart and soul of most classic chili recipes, and Frisch’s Chili is no different. One pound of ground beef provides the meaty substance and savory richness that chili lovers crave. The fat content of the ground beef will influence the final flavor and texture. Lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) will result in a healthier chili with less grease, while ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20 or 85/15) will yield a richer, more flavorful chili, though you may need to drain off excess grease after browning. For optimal flavor, choose ground beef that is fresh and high quality.
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Tomato sauce provides the liquid base and foundational tomato flavor for Frisch’s Chili. A 15-ounce can of tomato sauce contributes a smooth, slightly sweet, and tangy tomato essence that binds the other ingredients together. Tomato sauce is essentially cooked and pureed tomatoes, offering a concentrated tomato flavor that is readily incorporated into the chili. Ensure you use plain tomato sauce without any added herbs or spices, as we will be adding our own blend of seasonings to create the signature Frisch’s Chili flavor profile.
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring texture and a brighter, fresher tomato flavor to the chili. A 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds chunks of juicy tomatoes that break down slightly during simmering, contributing to the chili’s hearty and rustic character. You can use diced tomatoes with or without added herbs and spices, depending on your preference. For a richer tomato flavor, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes, which offer a slightly smoky and caramelized note. If you prefer a smoother chili, you can lightly crush the diced tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed: Kidney beans are a quintessential chili ingredient, providing protein, fiber, and a satisfyingly creamy texture. A 15-ounce can of kidney beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed, contributes a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a vibrant red hue to the chili. Draining and rinsing the beans removes excess sodium and the starchy liquid that can make the chili cloudy. Kidney beans are a classic choice for chili, but you can also experiment with other types of beans like black beans, pinto beans, or chili beans for variations in flavor and texture.
2 tablespoons chili powder: Chili powder is the spice blend that defines the flavor profile of chili, and in Frisch’s Chili, it plays a starring role. Two tablespoons of chili powder provide a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor with a mild to moderate heat level. Chili powder is a blend of dried chili peppers and other spices like cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. The exact composition of chili powder can vary between brands, so taste your chili powder and adjust the amount accordingly. For a spicier chili, you can use a hotter chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
1 teaspoon cumin: Cumin, with its warm, earthy, and slightly citrusy notes, is a quintessential spice in chili recipes. One teaspoon of cumin enhances the chili’s depth of flavor and complements the chili powder beautifully. Ground cumin is preferred for its convenience and even distribution of flavor. Cumin seeds can also be used, but they need to be toasted and ground before adding to the chili. Cumin adds a distinct warmth and aroma that is characteristic of classic chili.
1 teaspoon salt: Salt is the fundamental seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients in Frisch’s Chili. One teaspoon of salt, or to taste, is crucial for balancing the flavors and preventing the chili from tasting bland. Start with one teaspoon and adjust according to your taste preference. Different types of salt, like kosher salt or sea salt, can be used. Always taste and season as you go, as it’s easier to add salt than to remove it.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle pungency and warmth to Frisch’s Chili, complementing the other spices and enhancing the overall flavor profile. One teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground if possible, provides a gentle kick and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper has a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preference.
½ teaspoon paprika: Paprika, with its mild, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor, adds a subtle depth and color to Frisch’s Chili. Half a teaspoon of paprika enhances the chili’s complexity and contributes to its rich red hue. Smoked paprika will add a more pronounced smoky flavor, while sweet paprika will add a milder, sweeter note. Paprika is a versatile spice that complements the other spices in the chili and adds a touch of visual appeal.
Shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional): Shredded cheddar cheese is a classic and beloved topping for chili, adding a creamy, tangy, and melty element that complements the savory flavors of the chili. Cheddar cheese melts beautifully over hot chili, creating a delightful contrast in texture and temperature. Sharp cheddar cheese provides a more pronounced cheesy flavor, while mild cheddar is a gentler option. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
Sour cream for topping (optional): Sour cream adds a cooling and tangy counterpoint to the richness and warmth of Frisch’s Chili. A dollop of sour cream on top of each bowl of chili provides a creamy texture and a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. Full-fat sour cream is richer and creamier, while low-fat or fat-free sour cream are lighter options. Greek yogurt can also be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream, offering a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Instructions

Crafting Frisch’s Chili is a straightforward and rewarding process, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful dish. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a chili that will warm your kitchen and delight your taste buds:

Starting with the Oil: Aromatics First: Begin by setting up your flavor base. Place your large pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium heat. Pour in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat gently. The oil is ready when it shimmers slightly or a drop of water flicked into it sizzles. Add the 1 large chopped onion to the hot oil. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally with your wooden spoon, until it becomes translucent and softened, typically about 5-7 minutes. This process, known as sweating the onions, releases their natural sugars and aromatic compounds, building a flavorful foundation for the chili. Once the onions are softened, add the 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to brown or burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste. The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic is the first delightful hint of the delicious chili to come.
Meat Browning Step: Building Savory Depth: Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add the 1 pound of ground beef to the pot with the softened onions and garlic. Using your wooden spoon, break up the ground beef into smaller pieces. Continue to cook the ground beef, stirring frequently, until it is thoroughly browned. Browning the beef is a crucial step as it develops rich, savory flavors through the Maillard reaction. Ensure all the pinkness disappears from the beef and that it is cooked through. As the beef browns, it will release fat. If you are using ground beef with a higher fat content, you may want to drain off any excess grease at this point to prevent the chili from becoming overly greasy. Draining excess fat also contributes to a healthier final dish.
Mix in the Spices: Layering Flavors: Reduce the heat back to medium. Now it’s time to infuse the chili with its signature spice blend. Sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of paprika over the browned ground beef. Stir well to ensure that the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices. Cooking the spices with the beef and vegetables for a minute or two, known as blooming the spices, helps to release their aromatic oils and deepen their flavors. This step is crucial for creating a complex and well-rounded chili flavor profile. The kitchen will now be filled with the warm and inviting aroma of chili spices.
Add Tomatoes and Beans: Hearty and Wholesome: Pour in the 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce and the 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes into the pot. Add the 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, which you have already thoroughly drained and rinsed. Stir everything together well to combine all the ingredients. Ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the tomato base and that the beans and tomatoes are incorporated. The liquid from the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes will help to deglaze the bottom of the pot, lifting up any flavorful browned bits that may have stuck during the meat browning process.
Simmer: Flavor Fusion and Tenderization: Reduce the heat to low, so the chili is gently simmering. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for deeper flavor development. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and marry together, creating a harmonious and complex chili. The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will deepen and intensify. During simmering, the ground beef will become more tender, and the tomatoes will break down further, thickening the chili. Stir the chili occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. For an even richer flavor, you can simmer the chili for up to 1-2 hours, or even in a slow cooker for several hours on low heat.
To Serve: Garnish and Enjoy: After simmering for the desired time, the Frisch’s Chili is ready to be served. Ladle the hearty chili into individual bowls. Now comes the fun part – garnishing! Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over each bowl of chili while it’s still hot, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully. Add a dollop of sour cream to each bowl for a cooling and tangy contrast. These toppings are classic and enhance the overall chili experience. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth and savory flavors of your homemade Frisch’s Chili. Feel free to offer additional toppings like chopped green onions, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of hot sauce for those who like extra heat.

Nutrition Facts

Frisch’s Chili, while a comforting and flavorful dish, also offers a decent nutritional profile, especially when made with lean ground beef and enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe provided:

Servings: 4
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings of hearty chili, making it perfect for a family meal or a small gathering. Serving sizes can be adjusted based on individual appetites and dietary needs.
Calories: 350 kcal (per serving)
Each serving of Frisch’s Chili contains approximately 350 calories. This calorie count is an estimate and can vary based on factors such as the fat content of the ground beef used, the amount of toppings added, and individual serving sizes. Using leaner ground beef and limiting toppings can help reduce the calorie count.

Important Note: These nutritional facts are estimates and can vary. For the most accurate nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Chili can be a part of a balanced diet, providing protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and ingredient choices to align with your individual dietary goals.

Preparation Time

The beauty of Frisch’s Chili lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its relatively quick preparation time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or when you crave a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
The preparation time for Frisch’s Chili is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the time required to chop the onion, mince the garlic, measure out the spices, open the cans of tomatoes and beans, and shred the cheese (if using). Efficient knife skills and organized mise en place can help streamline the prep process.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
The cooking time for Frisch’s Chili is around 30 minutes. This includes the time to sauté the onions and garlic, brown the ground beef, and simmer the chili to allow the flavors to meld and develop. The simmering time can be adjusted to your preference; longer simmering times will result in a richer and more flavorful chili.
Total Time: 45 minutes
The total time from start to finish for Frisch’s Chili is approximately 45 minutes. This encompasses both the prep time and the cook time, making it a relatively quick and convenient meal option. In under an hour, you can have a warm and satisfying bowl of homemade chili ready to enjoy.

How to Serve

Frisch’s Chili is incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Classic Bowl with Toppings:
- The most traditional way to enjoy Frisch’s Chili is simply in a bowl, generously topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
- These classic toppings enhance the chili’s flavor and texture, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Offer a variety of toppings for guests to customize their bowls, such as:
  - Chopped green onions
  - Diced red onions
  - Jalapeño slices (fresh or pickled)
  - Avocado or guacamole
  - Tortilla chips or strips
  - Hot sauce
Chili with Cornbread:
- Pairing Frisch’s Chili with a side of warm, buttery cornbread is a match made in culinary heaven.
- The slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread complements the savory and spicy chili beautifully.
- Serve the cornbread alongside the chili for dipping or crumbling into the bowl.
Chili Dogs:
- Transform Frisch’s Chili into a fun and flavorful chili dog topping.
- Spoon a generous amount of chili over grilled or steamed hot dogs in buns.
- Add your favorite hot dog toppings like mustard, relish, and chopped onions for a classic chili dog experience.
Chili Baked Potatoes:
- Create a hearty and satisfying meal by serving Frisch’s Chili over baked potatoes.
- Bake large russet potatoes until tender and fluffy.
- Split the potatoes open and top with a generous scoop of chili, shredded cheese, sour cream, and any other desired toppings.
Chili Mac and Cheese:
- Combine the comforting flavors of chili and mac and cheese for an ultimate comfort food dish.
- Prepare your favorite mac and cheese recipe and top it with a ladle of Frisch’s Chili.
- This combination is particularly appealing to both kids and adults.
Chili Nachos:
- Create a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-day snack by making chili nachos.
- Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with Frisch’s Chili, shredded cheese, and any other nacho toppings you enjoy (jalapeños, olives, etc.).
- Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Additional Tips for Perfect Frisch’s Chili

Elevate your Frisch’s Chili from delicious to extraordinary with these helpful tips and tricks:

Quality Ground Beef Matters: Opt for good quality ground beef with a decent amount of fat (around 80/20 or 85/15) for the most flavorful chili. The fat renders during cooking, adding richness and depth of flavor. Leaner ground beef can be used for a healthier option, but you may sacrifice some flavor.
Don’t Skimp on Simmering Time: While the recipe calls for a minimum of 30 minutes of simmering, allowing the chili to simmer for longer – up to 1-2 hours or even more – will significantly enhance the flavor. Long simmering allows the spices to fully meld and the flavors to deepen and become more complex. Low and slow is key for exceptional chili.
Adjust the Spice Level to Your Liking: Frisch’s Chili recipe is designed to be moderately spiced, but you can easily adjust the heat to your preference. For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce along with the other spices. You can also use a hotter chili powder or include chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers. For a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a milder chili powder blend.
Customize with Vegetables (Optional): While classic Frisch’s Chili is relatively simple, you can customize it by adding other vegetables if desired. Diced bell peppers (green, red, or yellow), chopped carrots, or celery can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic to add extra flavor and texture. Corn kernels can also be stirred in during the last 15 minutes of simmering for sweetness and texture.
Make it Ahead and Flavor Gets Better: Chili is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, the flavors of chili often improve after it has been refrigerated overnight and reheated. Making Frisch’s Chili a day or two in advance is a great way to save time and allows the flavors to meld even further. Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

FAQ Section: Ingredients

Navigating the ingredient list for chili can sometimes raise questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions specifically about the ingredients in Frisch’s Chili:

Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef in Frisch’s Chili. This is a great way to make a leaner and lighter version of the chili. Ground turkey and chicken tend to be lower in fat than ground beef. When using ground turkey or chicken, ensure you brown it thoroughly and break it up into small pieces just like you would with ground beef. The cooking time remains the same. Keep in mind that ground turkey and chicken have a milder flavor than ground beef, so the overall flavor profile of the chili might be slightly different, but still delicious.

Q2: Can I use different types of beans besides kidney beans?

A: Absolutely! While kidney beans are classic in chili, you can experiment with other types of beans to create variations in flavor and texture. Black beans, pinto beans, cannellini beans, or even chili beans (which are usually pinto beans in a chili-flavored sauce) can all be used in Frisch’s Chili. You can use a single type of bean or a combination of different beans. Ensure you drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly before adding them to the chili, regardless of the type you choose.

Q3: Can I make this chili vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, Frisch’s Chili can easily be adapted to be vegetarian or vegan. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef. To make it vegan, omit the ground beef and ensure that any toppings you use are also vegan (e.g., vegan cheese shreds, vegan sour cream or avocado). To maintain the heartiness of the chili without meat, you can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or even crumbled plant-based ground meat substitutes. You can also increase the amount of beans or add lentils for extra protein and substance.

Q4: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes. For a 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes, you’ll need approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. To use fresh tomatoes, you’ll need to peel and dice them. You can easily peel tomatoes by blanching them briefly in boiling water and then plunging them into ice water; the skins will slip off easily. Diced fresh tomatoes will add a brighter and fresher flavor to the chili. You may need to simmer the chili for a slightly longer time to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down and thicken the chili.

Q5: Can I adjust the amount of spices?

A: Definitely! The spice amounts in the recipe are guidelines, and you can adjust them to suit your personal taste preferences. If you prefer a milder chili, start with less chili powder, cumin, and black pepper, and taste as you go, adding more if needed. If you like a spicier chili, you can increase the chili powder, add cayenne pepper, or include chopped jalapeños. Always taste and season as you cook, as spice preferences are subjective. You can also experiment with other spices like oregano, smoked paprika, or coriander to customize the flavor profile of your Frisch’s Chili.