For The Love of Fall

My homemade chili ... one problem - I don't measure when I cook! I'll tell you what's in it, but my little Italian gramma, who taught me most of the recipes I make, never measures ingredients. LOL! If you have any questions, I will be happy to try to answer them. This chili is pretty mild. My little guys even love it!


Brown ground beef or ground turkey (for this particular pot, I used 2 packages of ground turkey and one package of ground beef - yes, 3 packages total) in a large pot with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and worcestershire sauce. Being Italian, I use quite a bit of the garlic powder, but use amounts as you see fit. Cook thoroughly and drain excess fat and oil.


Return meat to pot. Add 2 large cans (29 ounces each) of tomato sauce and 1 large can (30 ounces) of chili beans (do not drain beans, use the entire can). Stir together until completely mixed. If sauce is too thin, add tomato paste or puree until desired thickness. Bring chili to a slight boil.


Add a couple packets of my now not-so-secret ingredient, Mild Taco Bell sauce to desired taste. If you don't have some of these floating around in your fridge, you can add your favorite hot sauce or salsa. Stir well and simmer. The longer you simmer, the better the chili. Serve with shredded cheese, chopped onions, saltine crackers, french bread, tortillas, whatever you desire! Perfect for those crisp fall days and can be made in big batches for entertaining! This recipe fed 6 people with leftovers for the next day (which is when the chili tastes even better!!). Enjoy!