Tailgate Chili
This chili is the kind of recipe that turns a parking lot into a party. It’s hearty, bold, and packed with flavor that keeps everyone hovering around the pot with a spoon in hand. Loaded with ground beef, warm spices, and just the right kick, it’s the ultimate game‑day comfort food — easy to make, easy to transport, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re feeding a hungry football crew or just craving a cozy bowl on a cool afternoon, this chili brings all the tailgate energy: fun, flavorful, and made for sharing. It’s the recipe your readers will want bookmarked for every kickoff.
Tailgate Chili Serving Ideas (sides and toppings)
- Diced white onions
- Jalapenos
- Cheese
- Sour Cream
- Fritos or Saltine crackers
- Cornbread/Jalapeno Cornbread
- Hot Dogs
- Grilled Cheese
Tailgate Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lbs 80/20 hamburger meat
- 1 pkts chili seasoning
- 1 can dark kidney beans
- 14.5 oz diced petite tomatoes
- 6 oz tomato sauce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the hamburger meat and drain the grease.
- Open and drain the kidney beans and the petite diced tomatoes and set aside.
- Transfer browned beef to an 8-quart Dutch oven. Add the seasoning packets, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine, then add the kidney beans and mix again.
- Simmer for about 30 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it doesn't stick to the pan.
Notes
For tailgating, I triple this recipe.
This chili can be made in a crockpot to accommodate traveling to a party.
I use Chili-O seasoning for my Chili. I have tried many different seasonings, and my team likes this one the best. However, I do have a homemade chili seasoning recipe; see below:
2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper. If you want to add more heat, add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.