There’s a certain comfort that comes with a warm bowl of chili, especially when it embraces the smoky essence of leftover brisket. Picture this: the sun sets earlier and the air grows crisp—perfect weather for a hearty meal. I stumbled upon this delightful Leftover Brisket Chili on a chilly Wednesday, scouring my fridge for something cozy that would shake off the mundane fast-food routine.
This recipe not only makes use of that delicious brisket you might have lingering from Sunday’s feast but transforms it into a spicy, savory masterpiece that’s deeply satisfying. The rich blend of flavors—smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and zesty chipotle—creates a dish that feels special, without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a dish that can feed a hungry crowd with ease?
Join me as I take you through this simple yet soul-warming recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Leftover Brisket Chili
Comforting warmth: This chili is the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for cool evenings.
Flavor explosion: Rich, smoky brisket combined with zesty chipotle creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll spend more time enjoying and less time cooking!
Crowd-pleaser: Easily feeds a group, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners.
Waste not, want not: Transform your leftover brisket into a delicious meal that reduces food waste.
Versatile toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
Embrace the comforting charm of this recipe and say goodbye to mundane meals!
Leftover Brisket Chili Ingredients
For the Base
• Bacon – adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture to your chili.
• Canola oil – provides a neutral cooking oil for sautéing.
• Onion – enhances the overall flavor with its sweet, aromatic qualities.
• Green bell pepper – contributes freshness and crunch to the mix.
• Jalapeno pepper – brings a touch of heat that can be adjusted to taste.
• Garlic – infuses the dish with rich depth and umami.
For the Chili
• Chili Seasoning Blend – a perfect mix that captures the essence of chili, amplifying the flavor.
• Flour – serves as a thickening agent to give the chili a hearty consistency.
• Brisket – the star of this chili, leftover smoked brisket adds incredible tenderness and a deep flavor.
• Chipotle in adobo sauce – adds a smoky heat that elevates the chili’s complexity.
• Kidney Beans – provide protein and fiber, making the dish more filling.
• Crushed Tomatoes – create a rich base that ties all the ingredients together.
• Brown sugar – balances the spices with a hint of sweetness.
• Beer – enhances the chili’s depth; feel free to substitute with broth if preferred.
• Beef broth – adds richness and moisture, ensuring the chili is soupy yet thick.
• Kosher salt – essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
Now you’re ready to craft your delicious Leftover Brisket Chili—a cozy, heartwarming bowl of good!
How to Make Leftover Brisket Chili
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Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add canola oil, allowing it to shimmer before adding the chopped bacon. This initial step builds a flavorful base for your chili.
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Cook the bacon until it’s crisp, then remove it to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the pot, keeping those delicious drippings for extra flavor.
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Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno in the remaining bacon fat. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 4 minutes. You’ll start to notice the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen!
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Add the minced garlic and chili seasoning blend, stirring until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds. This step releases the spices’ essential oils and maximizes flavor.
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Incorporate the flour into the mixture, cooking for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste. Add the leftover brisket and stir to coat the meat for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb all those flavors.
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Mix in the chipotle in adobo, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, brown sugar, and the crispy bacon. Stir until everything is fully combined, creating a delicious blend of textures and flavors.
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Pour in the beer and beef broth, scraping the bottom and sides of the pot to lift any flavorful bits. Season with kosher salt, enhancing the overall taste of your chili.
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Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium and cover. This allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully for about 45-50 minutes.
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Taste your chili near the end of the simmering time. If needed, feel free to add more salt to your liking. Adjusting seasoning is key for the best flavor!
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Uncover and let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes. This step helps to thicken the chili. Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings for a delightful finish!
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Leftover Brisket Chili
Fridge: Store your leftover brisket chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding even after cooking.
Freezer: To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Tip: The flavors of your leftover brisket chili may deepen after freezing, making it even more delicious on your next serving!
Expert Tips for Leftover Brisket Chili
- Bacon Advantage: Ensure your bacon is crispy: This adds texture and deepens the flavor of your chili. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the wait!
- Vegetable Cooking: Don’t skip the sautéing: Properly cooking the onions and peppers releases their natural sweetness and amplifies the chili’s depth.
- Balance the Heat: Adjusting spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less jalapeno and add more as desired. You can always add heat, but it’s tricky to remove it!
- Thickening Techniques: Avoid a soupy chili: Stir the flour in well and give it time to cook; this prevents a gritty texture and achieves the perfect consistency.
- Flavor Enhancers: Taste as you go: Adding salt gradually helps prevent over-seasoning. Your leftover brisket chili should sing with flavors, not be overwhelmed by salt!
- Resting Time: Let it sit: For the best flavor, allow the chili to rest for a bit before serving. This lets the spices meld beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Leftover Brisket Chili preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables—onion, bell pepper, jalapeno, and garlic—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you want to prep even further, you can fully cook the chili and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the chili on the stove until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth if it thickens too much. This way, you enjoy the same delicious flavors without spending extra time in the kitchen on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Leftover Brisket Chili?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that beautifully complement the bold flavors of your chili.
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Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy, hearty chili, providing a delightful contrast in every bite.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, these chips add a satisfying texture and make a fantastic dunking option for your chili.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, refreshing slaw balances the heat of the chili while adding a crispy element that enhances your meal.
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Avocado Slices: Rich and creamy, fresh avocado brings smoothness to the dish and can soften the spices, making it a perfect partner for chili.
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Baked Potatoes: Tender, fluffy potatoes serve as a neutral base for your chili, allowing the rich flavors to shine while adding a comforting touch.
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Beer or Cider: A chilled glass of beer or crisp cider complements the robust flavors of your chili, making every bite more enjoyable. Each sip enhances the smoky notes beautifully!
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp adds warmth and sweetness to your meal, making it the perfect final touch after savoring the spicy chili.
These delightful servings not only complement your leftover brisket chili but also round out your meal for a truly satisfying experience!
Leftover Brisket Chili Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun and flavorful twists!
- Spicy Kick: Add more jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance for a customized experience.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the brisket for diced mushrooms or extra beans to make a hearty meatless version. You won’t miss the meat with these robust flavors!
- Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke for an additional smoky essence. This will deepen the overall flavor profile and make every bite irresistible.
- Beer Swap: Replace the beer with a dark vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version that keeps all the rich flavors intact. You’ll still enjoy a cozy, comforting bowl.
- Sweet and Spicy: Include diced pineapple or corn for a sweet contrast to the chili’s heat. This adds a delightful texture and unexpected flavor burst to each spoonful.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh cilantro or parsley during the last few minutes of cooking for a refreshing green pop. This brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal note.
- Cheesy Goodness: Top your chili with shredded cheese or a dollop of cream cheese before serving for a creamy, indulgent touch. This creates a luscious contrast to the spicy base.
- Taco Twist: Serve the chili in taco shells or over nachos for a fun, shareable meal. Topping with avocado or sour cream will elevate your taco night experience!
Embrace your culinary creativity and let these variations inspire your next chili adventure!
Leftover Brisket Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right brisket for this chili?
Absolutely! For this Leftover Brisket Chili, look for brisket that has a good balance of fat and meat. A well-smoked brisket with a nice bark will enhance the flavor. Ensure there’s no excess moisture or dark spots on the meat, indicating it has been stored properly.
How long can I store leftover brisket chili?
You can store your chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. And don’t forget, the flavors often improve the longer it sits, so it might just taste even better the next day!
Can I freeze leftover brisket chili?
Definitely! Allow your Leftover Brisket Chili to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What if my chili is too thick?
Very! If you find your chili is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Bring it to a gentle simmer again to allow the flavors to meld after the addition.
Is this chili safe for my pets?
While this Leftover Brisket Chili is a delight for humans, I recommend keeping it away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs and cats if consumed in large amounts. It’s always best to err on the side of caution!
Can I make this chili healthier?
Absolutely! If you want to lighten this dish up, try using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon, and swap out kidney beans for black beans to increase fiber content. You can also reduce the amount of salt or use low-sodium broth to ensure it fits your dietary needs while still being incredibly delicious!
Savory Leftover Brisket Chili That Will Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add canola oil, allowing it to shimmer before adding the chopped bacon.
- Cook the bacon until it's crisp, then remove it to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the pot.
- Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno in the remaining bacon fat until tender, about 4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chili seasoning blend, stirring until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds.
- Incorporate the flour, cooking for 1 minute. Add the leftover brisket and stir to coat.
- Mix in the chipotle in adobo, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, brown sugar, and crispy bacon.
- Pour in the beer and beef broth, scraping the bottom and sides of the pot. Season with kosher salt.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium and cover for 45-50 minutes.
- Taste the chili near the end of simmering. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Uncover and let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes before serving.