Chili cook-offs are a beloved tradition where chili enthusiasts gather to compete for the coveted title of “Chili Champion.” Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time competitor, a winning chili needs to stand out. It should be rich in flavor, perfectly spiced, and packed with hearty ingredients that leave a lasting impression. These 12 award-winning chili recipes are guaranteed to bring the heat, impress the judges, and make your chili the star of the cook-off. From classic to creative, these recipes combine the best of traditional chili and inventive twists, making them perfect for the next chili competition or a cozy family meal.
1. Classic Beef Chili
This classic beef chili is a timeless favorite that has been perfected over the years. Made with lean ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of aromatic spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic, it’s the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet. Simmered low and slow to allow the flavors to meld, this chili is thick, hearty, and satisfying. Top it with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions for an extra touch of creaminess and crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always scores well in cook-offs. Get the recipe: Classic Beef Chili
2. Texas-Style Chili (No Beans)
In Texas, true chili purists will tell you that beans have no place in chili. Texas-style chili is all about the beef, with tender chunks of beef chuck or brisket stewed in a rich and spicy broth made from dried chilies, tomatoes, and beef broth. This chili is hearty, flavorful, and packs a serious punch with its use of dried ancho and chipotle peppers. For those who love a meaty, no-frills chili that allows the flavors of the beef and spices to shine, this recipe is a sure winner. Get the recipe: Texas-Style Chili (No Beans)
3. Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
For a healthier, lighter twist on chili, this turkey and sweet potato chili is a fantastic choice. Lean ground turkey provides a lighter base while sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and texture. The addition of black beans and a blend of spices like cinnamon and smoked paprika gives this chili an unexpected depth of flavor. The slow-cooked sweetness of the sweet potatoes perfectly balances the heat from the chili powder and jalapeños. It’s a chili that’s both comforting and nourishing. Get the recipe: Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
4. White Chicken Chili
If you’re looking for something different than the traditional red chili, white chicken chili offers a bright, creamy alternative. Made with tender chicken breast, white beans, green chilies, and a touch of cumin, this chili has a mild heat but a big flavor. It’s finished with a creamy base from sour cream or cream cheese, giving it a rich, velvety texture. Garnish it with cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese for the perfect balance of flavors. This chili is often the underdog in cook-offs, but it’s a clear winner in taste and creativity. Get the recipe: White Chicken Chili
5. Smoked Sausage Chili
Smoked sausage brings a savory, smoky depth to this chili that’s hard to beat. The sausages are sliced and browned, then simmered with a hearty mix of beans, tomatoes, and a combination of chili seasonings that give it a well-rounded spice. The smokiness from the sausage adds an extra layer of richness that other types of chili might lack. This version is perfect for chili lovers who crave a little extra bite and want something that stands out from the crowd. Get the recipe: Smoked Sausage Chili
6. Vegetarian Chili
This vegetarian chili is a flavor-packed option that doesn’t skimp on heartiness. A mix of beans (black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas) combines with colorful bell peppers, tomatoes, and corn to create a satisfying, meaty texture. The use of spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers gives it a rich, smoky flavor that’s sure to impress. For those who want a chili that’s both satisfying and plant-based, this vegetarian version will steal the spotlight in any cook-off. Get the recipe: Vegetarian Chili
7. Chocolate and Coffee Chili
For something truly unique, this chili combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate and coffee to create a complex, bold dish. The combination of ground beef or pork with cocoa and a shot of espresso adds a surprising depth to the chili. The bitterness of the coffee and the slight sweetness of the chocolate balance the heat from the chili powder and the earthiness of the beans. It’s an indulgent take on classic chili that’s sure to impress the judges with its creative flavors.
Get the recipe: Chocolate and Coffee Chili
8. Chili Verde
Chili Verde is a green chili made with tender pork shoulder, tomatillos, green chilies, and cilantro. This vibrant, tangy chili is a welcome departure from the usual red variety, offering a zesty and savory flavor profile. The tomatillos provide a tangy base that’s complemented by the heat of the green chilies, and the slow-cooked pork adds richness and tenderness. It’s a standout choice for those looking to bring something different to the cook-off. Get the recipe: Chili Verde
9. Spicy Chili with Ghost Peppers
For chili aficionados who love to crank up the heat, this spicy chili with ghost peppers is the ultimate test of endurance. Ghost peppers are one of the hottest peppers in the world, and they pack a serious punch in this chili. Combined with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of chili powders, this recipe is for those who crave a fiery, mouth-numbing experience. If you can handle the heat, this chili will definitely make a lasting impression in any competition. Get the recipe: Spicy Chili with Ghost Peppers
10. Beer-Braised Chili
Adding beer to your chili not only adds complexity but also infuses it with a deep, malty flavor. In this recipe, beef is braised in beer before being combined with tomatoes, beans, and chili spices, creating a rich and hearty base. The beer’s bitterness balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the heat from the chili powder, while also tenderizing the meat. The beer also gives the chili a slightly darker color and a savory finish that makes it stand out in a cook-off. Get the recipe: Beer-Braised Chili
11. Beef and Bacon Chili
Bacon brings a smoky, crispy element to this beef chili that adds incredible flavor and texture. The rendered bacon fat is used as the base for sautéing the onions, garlic, and peppers, infusing the chili with a rich, savory flavor right from the start. The crispy bacon bits throughout the chili add a crunchy contrast to the tender beef and beans, making every bite exciting. This chili is packed with umami and will have the judges coming back for seconds. Get the recipe: Beef and Bacon Chili
12. Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati-style chili is a unique take on traditional chili, often served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese, onions, and beans. This chili is spiced with cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa, giving it a distinctive, sweet-and-savory flavor. The ground beef is simmered with tomato paste, vinegar, and a variety of aromatic spices, creating a thick, flavorful sauce. It’s a different kind of chili, perfect for anyone looking to wow the judges with a regional specialty. Get the recipe: Cincinnati Chili
Whether you prefer your chili smoky, spicy, or even sweet, these 12 award-winning chili recipes cover all the bases to ensure you’ll impress the judges at your next cook-off. With a wide range of flavors and ingredients—from beef and turkey to coffee and chocolate—there’s a recipe here that will suit any chili lover’s palate. So gather your ingredients, fire up the pot, and get ready to bring the heat! No matter which recipe you choose, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be serving up a winning bowl of chili that could just take home the trophy.
