Sharon BrownBefore diving into the details of the famed Wegmans beef chili recipe, let’s consider what pairs well with this delightful dish. A fluffy, soft cornbread is a classic companion. The subtly sweet flavors blend perfectly with the spiciness of chili. A side of crispy tortilla chips can also enhance your experience. They provide a satisfying crunch and can be dipped into the chili for an added texture.
How about something cooling? A simple, refreshing salad can cleanse the palate, balancing the bold flavors of your chili. Maybe a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese could elevate your bowl even further. Trust me; these additions work wonders and bring the entire meal together.
Chili is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. On cold winter nights, or even during summer barbecues, there’s something about a hearty bowl of chili that makes everything feel right. One recipe that consistently stands out is the Wegmans beef chili. This dish has a remarkable ability to unite friends and families, from autumn tailgates to cozy winter dinners.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours exploring recipes. So much joy comes from a successful kitchen experiment. And let me tell you, this chili recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. You’ll soon understand why Wegmans’ version has gained a loyal following.
What is Wegmans Beef Chili?
Let’s get into it. The Wegmans beef chili recipe is a blend of high-quality ground beef, beans, and a symphony of spices. This dish is known for its depth of flavor and hearty texture. The use of fire-roasted diced tomatoes and fresh vegetables enriches it, striking a perfect balance between heat and comfort.
How Does It Taste?
The first spoonful takes you on a journey. The ground beef is tender and savory, while the beans add creaminess. The spices create a delightful kick, complemented by the slight sweetness of bell peppers. Each bite is layered with flavors that dance together, creating a memorable experience. And if you enjoy a kick of heat? You can adjust the spices to make it your own.
Why You’ll Love This!
What makes it appealing? For starters, it’s easy to prepare. With ingredients that are easily accessible, you can whip it up on a busy weekday or prepare it in advance for gatherings. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s flexible! You can modify it expertly to suit your taste buds and dietary needs. That’s always a bonus!
Ingredients
Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish.
- 3 pounds of Wegmans Organic Grass-Fed 93/7 Ground Beef
- 1 tablespoon of Wegmans Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 containers (7 oz each) of Wegmans Organic Pre-Chopped Onions
- 1 package (7 oz) of Wegmans Diced Sweet Bell Peppers & Onions Mix
- 3 cloves of Wegmans Peeled Garlic, finely minced
- Sea salt, to taste
- 4 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 container of Wegmans Organic Chili Spice Blend
- 2 teaspoons of Wegmans Organic Ground Cumin
- 2 teaspoons of Wegmans Organic Dried Oregano Flakes
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
- 1 can (14½ oz) of fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) of Wegmans Organic Dark Red Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of Wegmans Organic Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 bottles (12 oz each) of Wegmans Chili Tomato Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups of Wegmans Organic Beef Bone Broth
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. The prep work is crucial. Chop the garlic and prepare your veggies to have everything ready for the cooking phase. Organizing your ingredients will streamline the process.
Step 2: Sauté Your Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper mix. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef into the pot. Break the meat up with a spoon, stirring occasionally. Brown it until it’s fully cooked—a nice 8-10 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic. Stir it in for about 1 minute, just enough to bring out that rich flavor. Then, sprinkle in the sea salt, Worcestershire sauce, chili spice blend, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. This combination will elevate the dish immensely.
Step 5: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
Now comes the moment of goodness. Stir in the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes and the beef bone broth. The liquid pulls all the flavors together, making the chili rich and hearty.
Step 6: Add Beans and Sauce
It’s time to add the star players—the beans! Toss in both types of beans and the chili tomato sauce. Stir everything for a consistent blend. This is where the chili starts to take shape.
Step 7: Let It Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Think of this time as the chili letting all those flavors mingle and marry.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust
Once your time is up, taste your chili. This is the fun part! Adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a bit of extra salt or a pinch of spice can make all the difference.
Step 9: Serve It Up
Dish out your chili into bowls. Top it with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Grab your cornbread, and dive in!
Tips On Making Wegmans Beef Chili
Here are some handy tips to elevate your chili-making game:
- Quality Ingredients: Always opt for quality meats and organic vegetables when possible. It really impacts the flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Don’t hesitate to make this a day in advance. The flavors deepen and improve.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the spicy elements. If you have kids or less adventurous eaters, dial back the heat.
- Garnishing Matters: Don’t overlook garnishes. A little lime or cilantro can brighten up the dish immensely.
- Watch the Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering. Allow your chili the time it needs to develop flavors.
Nutrition Information
How Do You Store This Wegmans Beef Chili?
Leftover chili can be stored easily. Allow it to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to store it longer, freeze it! It can hold up for about three months in the freezer.
When reheating, make sure to warm it up thoroughly. You can use the stove or the microwave.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Wegmans Beef Chili Recipe?
You can make this dish your own by using various substitutes. Here are some ideas:
1. Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, swap ground beef with ground turkey. It still holds the flavor well.
2. Vegan Ground Meat: If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, try using vegan ground meat. This choice maintains the texture while being a great option for vegetarians.
3. Different Beans: Experiment with different beans. Black beans or pinto beans can provide different flavors and textures to your chili.
4. Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian version, replace beef bone broth with vegetable broth. It maintains moisture and flavor.
5. Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies, like zucchini or carrots. They add nutrition and a new flavor profile without harming the integrity of the recipe.
Wegmans Beef Chili Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of Wegmans Organic Grass-Fed 93/7 Ground Beef
- 1 tablespoon of Wegmans Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 containers 7 oz each of Wegmans Organic Pre-Chopped Onions
- 1 package 7 oz of Wegmans Diced Sweet Bell Peppers & Onions Mix
- 3 cloves of Wegmans Peeled Garlic finely minced
- Sea salt to taste
- 4 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 container of Wegmans Organic Chili Spice Blend
- 2 teaspoons of Wegmans Organic Ground Cumin
- 2 teaspoons of Wegmans Organic Dried Oregano Flakes
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
- 1 can 14½ oz of fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can 15 oz of Wegmans Organic Dark Red Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz of Wegmans Organic Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 bottles 12 oz each of Wegmans Chili Tomato Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups of Wegmans Organic Beef Bone Broth
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. The prep work is crucial. Chop the garlic and prepare your veggies to have everything ready for the cooking phase. Organizing your ingredients will streamline the process.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper mix. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen.
- Next, increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef into the pot. Break the meat up with a spoon, stirring occasionally. Brown it until it’s fully cooked—a nice 8-10 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat.
- Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic. Stir it in for about 1 minute, just enough to bring out that rich flavor. Then, sprinkle in the sea salt, Worcestershire sauce, chili spice blend, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. This combination will elevate the dish immensely.
- Now comes the moment of goodness. Stir in the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes and the beef bone broth. The liquid pulls all the flavors together, making the chili rich and hearty.
- It’s time to add the star players—the beans! Toss in both types of beans and the chili tomato sauce. Stir everything for a consistent blend. This is where the chili starts to take shape.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Think of this time as the chili letting all those flavors mingle and marry.
- Once your time is up, taste your chili. This is the fun part! Adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a bit of extra salt or a pinch of spice can make all the difference.
- Dish out your chili into bowls. Top it with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Grab your cornbread, and dive in!
Notes
- Quality Ingredients: Always opt for quality meats and organic vegetables when possible. It really impacts the flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Don’t hesitate to make this a day in advance. The flavors deepen and improve.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the spicy elements. If you have kids or less adventurous eaters, dial back the heat.
- Garnishing Matters: Don’t overlook garnishes. A little lime or cilantro can brighten up the dish immensely.
- Watch the Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering. Allow your chili the time it needs to develop flavors.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Now you have all the tools, tips, and knowledge to make Wegmans beef chili recipe an absolute hit at your next gathering. It’s not just food; it’s a way to bring people together, share stories, and create memories over a bowl of something warm and hearty. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking! You’re about to become the chili champion of your household. Enjoy every spoonful!
