There’s something comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of chili especially when it’s packed with bold flavor and easy to prepare. The Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe brings all that and more. This satisfying one-pot dish blends ground beef, beans, veggies, and spices into a comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners, casual gatherings, or even weekly meal prep.
The beauty of this chili lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re a spice lover, a veggie enthusiast, or someone who likes to load up on protein, this recipe can be personalized to fit your preferences. Serve it over rice, pasta, or enjoy it solo it’s just that good like the Bj’s Chili Recipe.
Inspired by classic Texas-style flavors with a modern twist, this Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe is hearty, easy to make, and ideal for freezing ahead. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Mallory Ervin Chili
The first time I made Mallory Ervin’s Chili, I knew it would become a staple in my kitchen. The aroma of garlic, spices, and simmering tomatoes filled the house and had everyone asking when dinner would be ready.
What I loved most is how adaptable this recipe is. I’ve made it with both lean ground beef and turkey, and even tried it once with venison it never disappoints. And the depth of flavor from the cocoa powder and brown sugar? Absolute game-changer.
Whether served at a casual get-together or stored for weekday lunches, this chili has never failed me. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, and I know you’ll enjoy it just as much.
Ingredients Required for Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe
Before you start, make sure you have all the following ingredients listed below for this Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (90/10 recommended)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional but recommended)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ½ oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ½ oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Garlic press (optional
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Airtight storage containers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Copycat Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe
Just follow these easy steps to make your own Mallory Ervin Chili at home
1. Prep the Veggies: Dice 1 large onion and 1 bell pepper. Mince or press 4–5 garlic cloves (adjust to taste). Set everything aside and get your Dutch oven or large pot ready.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Meat: Add 1 lb of ground beef (90/10 recommended) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink. Reduce the heat to medium.
4. Add Flavor Base: Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste. Add 3 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, 1½ tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper. Mix well, then stir in 1 tbsp cocoa powder and 1 tbsp brown sugar.
5. Combine Beans & Liquids: Add 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz), 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz), 2 cans of drained and rinsed beans (pinto and kidney), and 2 cups beef broth. Stir and scrape the pot bottom to release flavor.
6. Simmer & Serve: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until thickened. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
How to Store Mallory Ervin Chili Properly?
Let the chili cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. For easy meals, freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What to Pair and Serve with Mallory Ervin Chili
1. Over Steamed Rice
We’ve served this chili over hot, fluffy white rice so many times it soaks up the sauce perfectly and turns into a super satisfying bowl.
2. Loaded Chili Nachos
One of our weekend go-to’s: pile chili on tortilla chips, top with cheese, then bake until bubbly. Add jalapeños and sour cream pure magic!
3. Chili Cheese Fries
If you’ve never spooned this chili over crispy fries and melted cheddar, you’re seriously missing out. It’s comfort food at its finest.
4. With Cornbread on the Side
We love pairing it with sweet, buttery cornbread. That mix of savory chili and slightly sweet bread is unbeatable.
5. Topped on a Baked Potato
This makes for an incredibly hearty meal just slice a baked potato open and load it with chili, cheese, and green onions.
6. Stuffed in Bell Peppers
Leftovers? We’ve stuffed them into halved bell peppers, baked with cheese on top tastes like a whole new meal.
7. Served Over Pasta (Chili Mac Style)
Try ladling chili over elbow macaroni it’s like grown-up comfort food with a spicy twist.
8. As a Hot Dog Topping
We’ve made chili dogs with this recipe more than once during game night. It’s always a hit!
9. With a Side of Tortilla Chips
We sometimes skip the spoon and use tortilla chips for scooping. It’s casual, crunchy, and really fun.
10. Chili-Stuffed Burritos
Wrap the chili in a warm flour tortilla with some rice and cheese it’s a filling, delicious lunch on the go.
My Personal Experience With this Recipe and Some Tips
1. Use a Sharp Knife
A sharp knife makes chopping onions and peppers way easier and safer. Dull knives can slip ouch!
2. Chop Everything First
Before you turn on the stove, chop all your veggies. It makes cooking much smoother and less stressful.
3. Don’t Burn the Garlic
When you add garlic, only cook it for a minute. If it turns brown, it can taste bitter.
4. Pick Your Favorite Beans
Use any beans you like pinto, black, or kidney. Just rinse them first so the chili isn’t too salty.
5. Use Lean Ground Beef
A leaner beef (like 90/10) keeps your chili from feeling too greasy but still full of flavor.
6. Add the Spices Slowly
Start with less spice if you’re not sure. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
7. Let It Simmer
Let the chili cook low and slow for at least 25 minutes. That’s when the flavors get extra tasty.
8. Taste Before Serving
Always give it a little taste at the end. You might want to add a pinch more salt or spice.
9. Top It Your Way
Sour cream, cheese, green onions go wild! Toppings make it fun and extra yummy.
10. Save Some for Later
This chili is even better the next day. Store extras in the fridge or freeze for busy nights!
FAQs on Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe
Here are some common questions I’ve got you covered about the Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe.
1. Can I make this chili without beans?
Yes, absolutely! We’ve made it both ways. If you’re going for a more Texas-style chili, just skip the beans. It’s still rich and hearty just add a bit more meat or veggies to keep the volume up.
2. What’s the best meat to use?
We usually use 90/10 ground beef because it’s lean but still flavorful. But we’ve also tried ground turkey, chicken, and even venison it all works! Just be sure to adjust cooking times and seasoning as needed.
3. Is this Mallory Ervin Chili spicy?
It’s got a gentle kick, thanks to the chili powder and cayenne. But we’ve made it milder by using less spice when cooking for kids. You can always add more heat later!
4. Can I freeze this Mallory Ervin Chili?
Yes, and we do it all the time. Just let it cool completely, then portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks.
5. How long does it last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 4 days in an airtight container. Honestly, we think it tastes even better the next day!
6. Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. We’ve made it in the morning or the night before a party. Just reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave it reheats beautifully.
7. What toppings go best with this Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe?
Our go-to toppings are cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and sometimes jalapeños. You can also add crushed tortilla chips for crunch!
8. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! We’ve browned the meat and sautéed the veggies first, then tossed everything in the slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours. It works like a charm.
9. What if I don’t have tomato paste?
We’ve skipped it before and just added a little extra tomato sauce. It still turns out great maybe not quite as deep in flavor, but still totally delicious.
10. How can I thicken the Mallory Ervin Chili?
Let it simmer uncovered a little longer, and it’ll thicken up on its own. We’ve also mashed a few beans into the pot before it’s a great trick that really works!
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, the Mallory Ervin Chili Recipe hits the spot. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or gatherings. Give it a try, and don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite toppings and spice levels. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it and check back for more delicious inspiration!
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