The Best Chili Recipes in Minnesota: A Warm Taste of the North
What’s Your Favorite?
As temperatures drop in Minnesota, the search for hearty, comforting meals begins. Nothing says cozy like a steaming bowl of chili, filled with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat to keep you warm. Whether you’re a fan of traditional beef chili, enjoy experimenting with vegetarian options, or love a little Minnesota flair, we’ve rounded up some of the best chili recipes that locals rave about.
1. Classic Minnesota Beef Chili
For those who love a no-frills, stick-to-your-ribs kind of chili, this one’s for you. Packed with ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of chili spices, this recipe is a timeless favorite. What makes it Minnesotan? Adding a hint of wild rice for a subtle nutty flavor unique to the state.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked wild rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef with onions and garlic.
- Add beans, tomatoes, wild rice, and spices.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
2. Minnesota Vegetarian Wild Rice Chili
Minnesota is known for its wild rice, and this vegetarian chili lets it shine. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that even meat lovers will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked wild rice
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can corn
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
- Stir in beans, corn, tomatoes, wild rice, and spices.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Minnesota Maple Bacon Chili
For a uniquely Minnesotan twist, this recipe incorporates a touch of maple syrup and crispy bacon. It’s sweet, smoky, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork or beef
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 can pinto beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground meat with onions and garlic.
- Add beans, tomatoes, maple syrup, and spices.
- Top with crumbled bacon before serving.
4. Minnesota Hotdish-Inspired Chili
Minnesota hotdish is a staple, and this chili combines the best of both worlds. Think tater tots meet savory chili in one unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef with onions.
- Mix in beans, soup, and chili powder.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish, top with cheese and tater tots.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, or until the tots are golden.
Local Chili Cook-Offs and Tips
Minnesota chili enthusiasts often take their creations to the next level at local cook-offs, from St. Paul to Duluth. To perfect your chili, experiment with spice levels, add unexpected ingredients like cocoa powder or cinnamon, and serve with classic toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and a slice of crusty bread.
Minnesota’s best chili recipes bring together local flavors, creative twists, and plenty of heart. Whether you’re hosting a football party, warming up after a day on the ice, or just craving a comforting meal, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
What’s your go-to chili recipe? Share your tips in the comments below!
