Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe

Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe

Chili is a favorite comfort food for many people around the world. One of the most popular versions is Famous Dave’s Chili. This chili, served at Famous Dave’s restaurants, is loved for its tasty mix of seasonings and the special touch of tomato soup. These two ingredients make the chili unique, giving it a rich flavor that people can’t resist.

Today, I’ll show you how to make Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe at home, step by step. It’s simple and easy to follow, so let’s get started and make this tasty chili that will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why People Love Famous Dave’s Chili

Famous Dave’s chili has a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The combination of ground beef, sweet peppers, and that signature chili seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor. Tomato soup gives it a unique twist, adding sweetness and richness that sets it apart from other chili recipes.

People love it because it’s warm, filling, and satisfies any craving for comfort food.

Famous Dave’s Chili Copycat

What’s In Dave’s World Famous Chili?

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious chili at home:

  • 1 & ½ pounds ground beef – This is the hearty base of the chili. You can use ground turkey if you want a lighter option.
  • ½ large sweet onion, diced – Adds a nice sweetness and texture.
  • ½ green pepper, diced – Brings freshness and flavor to the mix.
  • ½ yellow pepper, diced – Another layer of sweetness.
  • ½ yellow sweet pepper, diced – Balances the flavor with mild sweetness.
  • 2 cans light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed – Adds bulk and texture to the chili.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes – Gives it a chunky texture and a bit of acidity.
  • 1 can Campbell’s tomato soup – This is the secret ingredient that gives the chili a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1 bottle chili sauce – Adds spice and tanginess.
  • 4 tablespoons Wild Bad Ass Martha Stew Farts chili seasoning – This seasoning blend makes all the difference. You can substitute with your favorite chili seasoning.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Always adjust the seasoning to your liking.
  • Water as needed – To control the thickness of your chili.

Ingredient Substitutions

Not everyone has the exact ingredients on hand, and that’s okay! Here are some easy swaps you can make to suit your pantry or dietary needs:

  1. Ground Beef: Replace with ground turkey for a leaner option or plant-based meat for vegetarian version.
  2. Kidney Beans: Black beans or pinto beans work great for variety
  3. Chili Sauce: BBQ sauce mixed with hot sauce can work in a pinch
  4. Chili Seasoning: Your favorite chili powder blend (about 2-3 tablespoons) plus 1 tablespoon each of cumin and paprika.

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this chili recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:

  1. Large pot or Dutch oven – This will hold all the ingredients and help cook everything evenly.
  2. Cutting board and sharp knife – For dicing the onions and peppers.
  3. Measuring spoons – To measure the seasoning and other ingredients.
  4. Can opener – To open the cans of beans and tomatoes.
  5. Wooden spoon – To stir the chili.
  6. Colander – For draining and rinsing the beans.
  7. Lid for the pot – To cover the chili while it simmers.

How To Make Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe

Step 1 | Prepare the Vegetables

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing your sweet onion, green pepper, and yellow peppers. These veggies add a nice crunch and sweetness to the chili.

Step 2 | Cook the Ground Beef

Combine with the Veggies

Heat a large pot over medium heat and brown the ground beef. While it’s cooking, add the diced onions, green pepper, and yellow peppers. Let the vegetables soften a bit, but don’t drain the fat – it adds flavor!

Step 3 | Add the Beans and Tomatoes

Add the Beans and Tomatoes

Drain and rinse the kidney beans to remove extra sodium. Add them to the pot along with the diced tomatoes (with their juice).

Add the Campbell’s tomato soup and the bottle of chili sauce. Pour a little water in as needed to get the right consistency.

Step 5 | Season It Up

Season it Up

Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili seasoning. Mix everything together well.

Step 6 | Simmer on Low

Cover and simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks.

Step 7 | Adjust the Flavor

Taste and adjust seasoning

After about an hour, taste the chili and add more seasoning if needed (up to 2 more tablespoons). Let it cook until it reaches your desired thickness and flavor.

Step 8 | Serve and Enjoy

Simmer and Serve

Once the chili is ready, serve it up with some bread and butter for the full Famous Dave’s experience!

Recipe Notes

Here are a few extra tips to make your chili even better:

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and richness.
  • Don’t drain the fat after browning the beef – it adds depth to the flavor.
  • Rinse your beans before adding them to the chili to remove any extra salt.
  • Simmer the chili for at least an hour to let the flavors develop fully.

Recipe Variations and Additions

There are plenty of ways to make this chili your own! Here are some ideas for variations:

  • Make it spicier: Add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you love extra heat.
  • Cheesy twist: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a creamy addition.
  • Add more veggies: If you like more texture, throw in some diced zucchini, carrots, or corn.
  • Change the beans: You can use a mix of beans like black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
  • Top it off: Sour cream, green onions, and cilantro make great toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Famous Dave’s Chili is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with other dishes. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with your chili:

  1. Cornbread: A warm piece of cornbread is a classic chili side dish.
  2. Rice: Serve the chili over a bowl of steamed white or brown rice to make it even more filling.
  3. Tortilla chips: Use tortilla chips to scoop up the chili, almost like a dip.
  4. Baked potatoes: Pour the chili over a baked potato for a comforting and filling meal.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerator: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Chili freezes really well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the chili overnight in the fridge (if frozen), then warm it on the stove over low heat until it’s heated through.

Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

    Yes! Brown the meat and veggies first, then put everything in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. This method lets all the flavors mix together really well and makes the meat super tender. Just check it now and then to make sure it’s not getting too dry.

    2. How spicy is Famous Dave’s Chili?

      The basic recipe has a medium heat level that most people enjoy. The spiciness comes from the chili seasoning mix. If you want it milder, start with less seasoning. You can always add more later. For extra heat, add your favorite hot sauce or some diced jalapeños.

      3. Why use tomato soup in chili?

        Tomato soup is one of the secret ingredients that makes Famous Dave’s Chili special. It adds smoothness and a touch of sweetness that balances the spices. It also helps make the chili thicker and gives it that perfect texture that everyone loves.

        4. Can I make this chili ahead of time?

          This chili actually tastes better the next day! Make it a day before you need it, let it cool down, and keep it in the fridge. The flavors will mix together even more overnight. Just warm it up when you’re ready to eat.

          5. How can I make this chili thicker?

            If you want thicker chili, let it simmer longer with the lid off. This lets the extra liquid cook away. You can also mash some of the beans with a spoon against the side of the pot – this naturally thickens the chili and adds a nice, creamy texture.

            6. What’s the best beef to use for this chili?

              Use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for the best taste. The fat adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. If you want to use leaner beef, that’s fine too, but you might want to add a little oil when cooking the meat to keep it from getting dry.

              7. Can I double this recipe?

                Yes! Just double all the ingredients and use a bigger pot. The cooking time stays about the same, but you might need to brown the meat in batches so it cooks evenly. This is great for big groups or if you want leftovers for the week.

                Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe

                Famous Dave’s Chili Recipe

                Yield: 8
                Prep Time: 20 minutes
                Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
                Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

                Learn how to make Famous Dave's Chili at home – a rich, meaty chili with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, ready in just under 2 hours!

                Ingredients

                • 1 & ½ pounds ground beef
                • ½ large sweet onion, diced
                • ½ green pepper, diced
                • ½ yellow pepper, diced
                • ½ yellow sweet pepper, diced
                • 2 cans light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
                • 1 can diced tomatoes
                • 1 can Campbell's tomato soup
                • 1 bottle chili sauce
                • 4 tablespoons Wild Bad Ass Martha Stew Farts chili seasoning
                • Salt and pepper to taste
                • Water as needed

                Instructions

                Step 1 | Prepare the Vegetables

                Start by dicing your sweet onion, green pepper, and yellow peppers. These veggies add a nice crunch and sweetness to the chili.

                Step 2 | Cook the Ground Beef

                Heat a large pot over medium heat and brown the ground beef. While it’s cooking, add the diced onions, green pepper, and yellow peppers. Let the vegetables soften a bit, but don’t drain the fat – it adds flavor!

                Step 3 | Add the Beans and Tomatoes

                Drain and rinse the kidney beans to remove extra sodium. Add them to the pot along with the diced tomatoes (with their juice).

                Add the Campbell’s tomato soup and the bottle of chili sauce. Pour a little water in as needed to get the right consistency.

                Step 5 | Season It Up

                Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili seasoning. Mix everything together well.

                Step 6 | Simmer on Low

                Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks.

                Step 7 | Adjust the Flavor

                After about an hour, taste the chili and add more seasoning if needed (up to 2 more tablespoons). Let it cook until it reaches your desired thickness and flavor.

                Step 8 | Serve and Enjoy

                Once the chili is ready, serve it up with some bread and butter for the full Famous Dave’s experience!

                Nutrition Information:
                Serving Size: 1
                Amount Per Serving: Calories: 380Total Fat: 18gSodium: 780mgCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25g

                Conclusion

                Famous Dave’s Chili is a must-try if you’re a chili lover. With its rich, hearty flavor and the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s no wonder so many people are fans of this dish. I hope you give this recipe a try at home—it’s easy to make, and the results are amazing.

                Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with us and follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes! Happy cooking!

                Author

                • Karla Vogel

                  Hi, I'm Karla Vogel! I'm a 38-year-old professional chef and cookbook author living in the USA. Cooking has always been my passion, and I've dedicated my life to mastering the culinary arts. Over the years, I've honed my skills in kitchens across the country, blending classic techniques with modern flavors. My mission is to inspire others to cook with creativity and confidence. Whether through my cookbooks or in the kitchen, I strive to make every meal an experience to remember. When I'm not cooking, you can find me exploring local markets, discovering new ingredients, or sharing my love for food with friends and family.

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