Hickory Nut Gap Ultimate Chili

When you’re longing for something that truly warms you from the inside out, a steaming bowl of chili delivers every time. Our Hickory Nut Gap chili recipe is all about bringing together bold, robust flavors in a dish that’s as hearty as it is nourishing. Made with pasture-raised, grassfed beef, plenty of wholesome ingredients, and a generous blend of spices, this chili is designed to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and satisfy even the hungriest crowd. Whether it’s a cold night or you’re gathering loved ones for a casual meal, this easy chili recipe promises warmth, heartiness, and a big helping of flavor in every bite. 

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just getting started, this foolproof recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. 

Ingredients for Hickory Nut Gap Ultimate Chili 

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to create a chili featuring layers of robust, satisfying taste. 

Main Ingredients 

• 1 pound Hickory Nut Gap 100% Grassfed Ground Beef (80/20 blend)
• 6 ounces Hickory Nut Gap Breakfast Sausage (half a package)
• 28 ounces diced tomatoes (large can) or 4 cups fresh diced tomatoes
• ½ cup corn
• 15 ounces Great Northern or kidney beans (one can, rinsed and drained)
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasonings 

• 4 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Optional Garnishes 

• Avocado, diced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream

These pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a chili that is as rich in flavor as it is easy to make. 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

Creating this hearty chili is as simple as it is rewarding. Follow these steps to achieve a pot of warm, flavorful goodness. 

1. Sauté Aromatics 

Begin by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and green pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. 

2. Cook the Proteins 

Add the Hickory Nut Gap 100% Grassfed Ground Beef and Breakfast Sausage to the pot. Break up the meats with a wooden spoon and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. 

3. Season the Meat 

Once the meat is fully cooked, mix in all of the spices and seasonings—chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, and cinnamon. Stir well to coat the meat evenly, allowing the spices to bloom for enhanced flavor. 

4. Add Remaining Ingredients 

Stir in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices), corn, and drained beans. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. 

5. Simmer the Chili 

Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to fully develop the flavors. 

6. Rest and Serve 

Once the chili has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from the heat. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this short resting time enhances the texture and flavor. 

Serving Suggestions 

This versatile chili is delicious on its own or paired with your favorite sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal: 

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a classic, comforting combo. 
• Rice or Quinoa: Spoon your chili over a bed of fluffy rice or protein-packed quinoa for a heartier dish. 
• Loaded Toppings: Garnish with diced avocado, freshly chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. 
• Stuffed Potatoes: Use the chili as a filling for baked potatoes and top with your favorite fixings. 

Tips for Success 

1. Use High-Quality Meat: Hickory Nut Gap grassfed beef adds exceptional flavor and richness, making it the star of this recipe. 
2. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer milder chili, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños. 
3. Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. 
4. Double the Batch: This recipe scales up easily, making it a great option for meal prep or feeding a crowd. 
5. Customize the Recipe: Swap out Great Northern or kidney beans for black beans or chickpeas, or add diced zucchini or carrots for extra veggies. 

Final Thoughts 

This Hickory Nut Gap chili recipe is everything you want in a hearty meal—rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy family dinner or serving it for a special gathering. With Hickory Nut Gap’s pasture-raised grassfed beef as the foundation, you can trust you’re serving a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. 

We’d love to see how you make this recipe your own! Share your creations online and use the hashtag #hngrecipes to join our culinary community.