Mouthwatering Dinosaur Chili Recipe to Satisfy Your Cravings

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’ll be sharing my famous Dinosaur Chili recipe with you. As a chef, I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you today.

This recipe is not your average chili; it’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold winter nights or any time you’re craving a warm and comforting meal. It’s packed with protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious option for picky eaters who might not be fond of veggies.

If you’re a fan of Texas-style beef chili or barbeque, you’ll love this recipe. It’s inspired by the legendary Dinosaur Bar-B-Que restaurant, known for its amazing Texas-style beef chili and barbeque. My recipe is a copycat version of their famous chili, and I’ve added my own twist to make it even more delicious.

So, let’s get started and make some mouthwatering Dinosaur Chili together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful chili recipe that can satisfy your cravings and warm your soul? Look no further than this Dinosaur Chili recipe! This recipe is not your average chili recipe. It is a unique and delicious take on the classic chili, inspired by the famous Dinosaur Bar-B-Que restaurant.

What sets this chili apart is the combination of Texas-style beef chili and Dinosaur Bar-B-Que seasoned chili beans. The beef chili is made with ground beef, Italian sausage, cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste, while the chili beans are seasoned with garlic, chipotle pepper, and barbecue sauce. Together, they create a mouthwatering flavor that will leave you wanting more.

But that’s not all! This recipe also includes diced zucchini and purple onion, adding a touch of freshness and texture to the chili. And for those picky eaters or those who want to add a little something extra, you can top your chili with cheddar cheese, pasta, or even sour cherry sauce.

This Dinosaur Chili recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a game day party. It’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking. And with only one pot to clean up, it’s also a convenient option for busy nights.

So why should you try this recipe? Because it’s not just any chili recipe. It’s a one-of-a-kind recipe that will take your taste buds on a journey. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t just take my word for it, give it a try and see for yourself why this Dinosaur Chili recipe is the best chili recipe out there!

Ingredient List

Let’s talk about the ingredients you will need for this Dinosaur Chili Recipe. Don’t worry, the ingredients are easy to find and you may already have most of them in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

Meat and Beans:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 lb. Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cans of chili beans seasoned (15 oz. each)
• 1 can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained (15 oz.)

Vegetables and Spices:

• 1 purple onion, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can of tomato paste (6 oz.)
• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• 2 tablespoons of cumin
• 1 chipotle pepper, minced (optional)

Liquid and Dairy:

• 1 cup of barbecue sauce (I recommend Dinosaur Bar-B-Que sauce)
• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to check the ingredient list before heading to the grocery store to make sure you don’t forget anything.

The Recipe How-To

Now, it’s time to get cooking! Grab your apron and let’s dive into the details of making this delicious Dinosaur Chili.

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat up your pot on medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 lb of ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break up the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Add in 1 cup of diced purple onion and 1 cup of diced zucchini to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Flavor with Spices

Now it’s time to add some flavor to the chili. Add in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute or two until the spices become fragrant.

Step 4: Tomato Paste and Beans

Add in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and stir everything together. Then, add in 1 can of kidney beans and 1 can of chili beans (seasoned with garlic and chipotle pepper if possible) to the pot. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans first.

Step 5: Liquid and Simmer

Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of water to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

After 15-20 minutes, add in 1 cup of cooked pasta (optional) and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add in 1 tablespoon of butter and stir until it’s melted. This will add richness to the chili.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Now you’re ready to serve up your delicious Dinosaur Chili! Ladle it into bowls and top with some shredded cheddar cheese. You can also serve it with some cornbread or a side salad. Enjoy!

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about chili is its versatility. You can easily mix it up and make it your own by swapping out ingredients or adding new ones. Here are some substitution and variation ideas to try out:

– Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use Italian sausage for a spicier twist.

– If you don’t have kidney beans on hand, you can substitute with black beans or pinto beans.

– For a vegetarian option, omit the meat altogether and add more veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes.

– If you’re not a fan of zucchini, substitute it for another vegetable such as butternut squash or eggplant.

– For a Texas-style beef chili, use chili powder instead of cumin and add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.

– If you prefer a sweeter chili, add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the recipe.

– To make it more BBQ-style, add a cup of your favorite barbecue sauce and a can of baked beans to the recipe.

– For an extra kick, add a diced chipotle pepper or a tablespoon of garlic chipotle pepper sauce.

– If you want to get creative with toppings, try adding shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced purple onion, or even semi-sweet chocolate chips.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to making chili your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what works for you.

Serving and Pairing

Now that you have prepared this delicious Dinosaur Chili Recipe, it’s time to serve and pair it! This hearty and flavorful chili is perfect for a chilly night or a game day party. Here are some ideas to make the most of your Dinosaur Chili:

To serve, ladle the chili into individual bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese. You can also add a dollop of sour cream and some chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture. Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite pasta or cornbread on the side!

Pair this chili with a cold beer or a red wine that can stand up to the bold flavors of the dish. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec would be a great choice. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with some homemade lemonade or iced tea.

If you’re hosting a party, consider setting up a chili bar with a variety of toppings and sides. Some options include tortilla chips, jalapeños, diced avocado, and lime wedges. You can also offer a variety of hot sauces for those who like it spicy!

This Dinosaur Chili Recipe is a crowd-pleaser, so don’t be surprised if you have some picky eaters asking for seconds. With the right pairing, this chili can be a hit with everyone, even those who are not big fans of spicy food. So, get ready to warm up with a bowl of this amazing Texas-style beef chili and enjoy the compliments!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

This dinosaur chili recipe is a great option for meal prepping or making ahead of time. You can easily make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. To store it in the fridge, let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To freeze the chili, let it cool down completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label and date it, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw the chili, transfer it to the fridge overnight or defrost it in the microwave.

When reheating the chili, you can do it on the stove or in the microwave. To reheat on the stove, transfer the chili to a pot and heat it up over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot all the way through. To reheat in the microwave, transfer the chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, and microwave it for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

If the chili is too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of water or beef broth to thin it out. And if you want to add some extra toppings, go ahead and sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top or serve it over some pasta or cornbread. Just be sure to store any leftovers properly and reheat them thoroughly before eating.

Tips for Perfect Results

Making the perfect chili requires some know-how beyond just following the recipe. Here are some tips to ensure your Dinosaur Chili comes out perfect every time:

First and foremost, brown your meat properly. This means using a large pot or Dutch oven and cooking the ground beef until it is browned on all sides. Make sure to break up any large chunks of meat and drain off any excess grease.

Next, add your seasonings in stages. Start with the chili powder and cumin, then add the tomato paste, and finally the beans and vegetables. This will allow the flavors to build and meld together over time.

For an extra kick, try adding a chipotle pepper or two to the pot. This smoky and spicy addition will add depth to your chili and take it to the next level.

When it comes to the beans, be sure to use kidney beans that are seasoned with garlic and chipotle pepper. This will add even more flavor to your chili and take it to the next level.

To keep your chili from becoming too thick or too thin, use a combination of beef broth and water. This will give your chili the perfect consistency and keep it from becoming too heavy or too watery.

Lastly, don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of chopped purple onions will make your Dinosaur Chili truly exceptional. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it over a bed of pasta or with a side of warm cornbread for a truly hearty and satisfying meal.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this dinosaur chili recipe is a perfect addition to your recipe collection. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its unique blend of ingredients and spices, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The recipe is easy to follow, and I’ve provided you with tips and recommendations to ensure that you get the best results possible.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends and family, this recipe from the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que walks you through the steps to make an amazing Texas-style beef chili. And don’t forget to serve it with a side of cornbread or top it with some cheddar cheese for an extra special touch.

In addition, this recipe is also customizable, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and substitutions to make it your own. And with make-ahead, storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy this delicious chili for days to come.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this dinosaur chili recipe a try and taste the magic of the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in your own home. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

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