We’ve always loved the bold, hearty flavors of our Red Gold Chili Recipe, a comforting twist on classic American comfort food that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s packed with tender red gold potatoes, spices, and savory meats that create a dish full of warmth and depth.
This recipe draws inspiration from Southwestern traditions, where simple ingredients shine in every bite. We’ll show you how to whip it up with ease, making it a go-to for family gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or new to the scene, our version promises satisfaction every time.
Ingredients
In our Red Gold Chili Recipe, we gather fresh, flavorful ingredients that blend Southwestern traditions with hearty, comforting elements like tender red gold potatoes, savory meats, and aromatic spices. This selection ensures a bold, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering.
To help you get started, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order they are typically used, with precise measurements and prep notes for accuracy. Here’s the complete list:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option; we recommend browning it first for enhanced flavor)
- 4 medium red gold potatoes (diced into 1-inch cubes; choose firm ones for the best texture in our chili)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped; this adds a sweet, pungent base to build layers of taste)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced; fresh garlic elevates the aroma and depth of the dish)
- 1 bell pepper (seeded and diced; opt for red or green for a vibrant, crisp contrast)
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans (drained and rinsed; these provide protein and a creamy texture)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained; use fire-roasted for a smoky twist on our recipe)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred; this helps achieve the ideal consistency)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder (our key spice for that authentic Southwestern kick)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin (toasted if possible, for warm, earthy notes)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smokiness without overwhelming the potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste; enhances all flavors in the pot)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a sharp, balancing finish)
- Optional toppings: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a melty, indulgent garnish), fresh cilantro (chopped, about ¼ cup, for a bright, herbaceous touch), and sour cream (2 tablespoons per serving, for creaminess)
This lineup of ingredients promises a vibrant and nutritious Red Gold Chili that serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for family meals or casual events.
Required Tools and Equipment
To prepare our flavorful Red Gold Chili seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure efficiency and safety in the kitchen. These items help us chop, measure, stir, and cook with precision, making the process straightforward and enjoyable.
Here’s a curated list of the required tools and equipment, organized by their typical order of use:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: We use a 6-quart pot for simmering the chili to achieve that perfect tender texture with the red gold potatoes and meats. Choose one with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
- Chef’s Knife: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers quickly and safely. We recommend a sharp 8-inch knife to minimize prep time.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy wooden or plastic board provides a stable surface for all our vegetable prep, preventing slips and ensuring clean cuts.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our spices and broth, so we always have a set on hand to avoid over- or under-seasoning the dish.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot, helping us blend flavors evenly as the chili cooks.
- Can Opener: We need this for opening cans of kidney beans and diced tomatoes effortlessly, saving time during assembly.
- Colander: Useful for draining and rinsing the beans if they’re canned, ensuring our Red Gold Chili has the right consistency without excess liquid.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move forward and bring our hearty Red Gold Chili to life efficiently.
Instructions
Now that we have our fresh ingredients and essential tools lined up, we guide you through crafting our hearty Red Gold Chili step by step to ensure a flavorful and satisfying result.
Prep Work
Before we begin cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients for seamless assembly. This sets the stage for a bold Southwestern-inspired dish featuring tender red gold potatoes and savory spices.
- Chop the vegetables: Start by peeling and dicing 4 medium red gold potatoes into ½-inch cubes to promote even cooking and a creamy texture. Next, finely chop 1 large onion, mince 4 garlic cloves, and dice 1 bell pepper into ¼-inch pieces for quick sautéing and maximum flavor release.
- Measure the spices and other components: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference), and 1 teaspoon salt for our spice blend. Drain and rinse one 15-ounce can kidney beans using a colander to remove excess liquid and enhance the dish’s texture.
- Prepare the protein: If using ground beef or turkey, portion out 1 pound and set it aside to ensure it’s ready for browning.
Cooking the Chili
With our prep complete, we move to the stovetop to build layers of flavor in our Red Gold Chili, simmering the ingredients to create a rich, aromatic blend that warms the soul.
- Brown the protein: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon oil and cook 1 pound ground beef or turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon until browned and crumbled. This step locks in savory juices and builds a robust base.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release a fragrant, sweet aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Incorporate spices and liquids: Sprinkle in our prepared spice blend and stir for 1 minute to toast the spices, enhancing their earthy notes. Then, add the diced red gold potatoes, one 15-ounce can drained kidney beans, one 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes (with juices), and 2 cups beef broth. Stir well to combine, creating a thick, vibrant mixture that promises comforting depth.
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld into a hearty, spicy symphony.
- Final adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then remove from heat. For an extra kick, we recommend garnishing with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving our Red Gold Chili to 6-8 people.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Red Gold Chili recipe is its make-ahead potential, allowing flavors to meld and intensify for even more depth. This approach is perfect for busy schedules, family gatherings, or meal prepping, as the chili tastes even better the next day. We outline the steps below to ensure your Red Gold Chili remains fresh, flavorful, and safe.
Preparing in Advance
To maximize efficiency, prep your ingredients and partially cook the chili ahead of time. Follow these steps:
- Chop and measure ingredients early: Dice onions, bell peppers, and red gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to preserve crunch and freshness. This step streamlines assembly when you’re ready to cook.
- Cook the base components: Brown the ground beef or turkey and sauté the vegetables as outlined in our step-by-step instructions. Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to a storage container. You can prepare this up to 2 days ahead.
- Assemble and simmer: Combine all ingredients except for spices and liquids on the day of prep. Add spices and broth, then simmer for about 30 minutes until partially cooked. Allow the chili to cool before storing.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the hearty texture and bold Southwestern flavors of Red Gold Chili. Use the table below for recommended storage times and methods, based on standard food safety guidelines.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3-4 days | Store in an airtight container; label with the date to track freshness. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe bags or containers; portion into servings for easy reheating. |
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your make-ahead Red Gold Chili, reheat it gently to retain its comforting qualities and tender potatoes.
- From the refrigerator: Transfer the chili to a pot and heat over medium-low until it reaches a simmer, stirring occasionally for about 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to adjust consistency.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, reheat as above, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Taste and adjust seasonings, as flavors may mellow during storage.
- Final adjustments: After reheating, garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten the Southwestern-inspired spices and enhance the dish’s vibrant appeal.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Red Gold Chili is not only convenient but also delivers maximum flavor every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our Red Gold Chili recipe, a hearty blend that’s perfect for cozy evenings. It’s not just a meal—it’s a go-to option that delivers bold flavors and easy prep.
Try tweaking it with your favorite twists, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in our homes. We’re confident it’ll spice up your gatherings and keep everyone coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Red Gold Chili?
Red Gold Chili is a hearty, flavorful recipe featuring tender red gold potatoes, spices, and savory meats inspired by Southwestern traditions. It’s perfect for cold nights, family gatherings, or quick meals, offering bold tastes that appeal to both chili lovers and beginners.
What ingredients are needed for Red Gold Chili?
The recipe calls for ground beef or turkey, red gold potatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and various spices. Fresh, flavorful components ensure a nutritious, bold dish that serves 6-8 people, with precise measurements for easy prep.
What tools are required to make Red Gold Chili?
You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for simmering, a chef’s knife and cutting board for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, a can opener, and a colander for draining. These essentials promote safe and efficient cooking.
How do I prepare Red Gold Chili step by step?
Start by chopping vegetables and measuring spices. Brown the protein in a pot, sauté veggies, add spices, liquids, and beans, then simmer until tender. Taste and adjust seasoning, garnishing with cilantro or lime before serving. The process is straightforward and takes about 45-60 minutes.
Can I make Red Gold Chili ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients or cook the base in advance to let flavors meld. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove, adding broth if needed, and adjust seasonings for the best taste—ideal for meal prepping busy schedules.
How many people does Red Gold Chili serve?
This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it great for family meals or casual events. It’s versatile for scaling up or down based on your needs, ensuring everyone enjoys its comforting, bold flavors without much hassle.