Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of American comfort cuisine! This isn't just another chili recipe - it's a legendary hillbilly-style dish that combines the robust, hearty flavors of classic chili with the unexpected sweetness of warm cinnamon rolls. Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, spicy chili perfectly complemented by a soft, gooey cinnamon roll that'll make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress your family, wow your friends, or simply treat yourself to an unforgettable meal, this Hillbilly Chili is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package cinnamon rolls
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring and chopping. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Drain excess fat from the meat if desired, then return pot to heat.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices for 30-45 seconds to enhance their flavors.
- Add kidney beans (with liquid) and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the chili for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, prepare the cinnamon rolls according to package instructions.
- Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. If the chili seems too thick, add a small amount of water or beef broth.
- Serve hot chili in bowls with a warm cinnamon roll on the side or on top for a classic hillbilly-style presentation.
Tips
- For the most flavorful chili, use fresh spices and take the time to toast them in the pot before adding other ingredients. This helps release their essential oils and deepens the overall taste.
- Choose a high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content (80/20 works great) to ensure the meat stays juicy and flavorful.
- Don't rush the simmering process - letting the chili cook low and slow allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- If you want to make the chili extra special, consider topping it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some chopped fresh cilantro.
- The cinnamon rolls are crucial to this dish - try to get fresh rolls or bakery-style ones for the best experience. Serve them warm for maximum deliciousness!
- This recipe freezes wonderfully, so don't hesitate to make a double batch for easy future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 555kcal
Carbohydrates: 64g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 33mg
