Introduction

This Over the Top Chili Recipe delivers incredible smoky flavor by cooking the meatball directly over the chili pot on the grill or smoker. The rendered fat and drippings create a uniquely rich, beefy broth that simmers into the beans and vegetables below. For a perfect pairing, try this hearty chili with Cornbread Casserole Recipe Easy or Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe.

Ingredients

This chili delivers an explosive, smoky flavor that builds with every spoonful, featuring tender ground beef and savory bacon in a rich, spiced tomato base.

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 lb bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time	2 hours 45 minutes

Context: This Over the Top Chili Recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its efficient cooking method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Meatball

Combine 2 pounds of ground beef with your favorite chili seasonings in a large bowl. Form the mixture into one large, tightly-packed meatball. This unique method creates a deeply flavorful chili base as the meat cooks over the pot.

Step 2 — Preheat and Set Up Your Cooker

Preheat your smoker or grill to 275°F for optimal low-and-slow cooking. Place your empty Dutch oven or heavy pot directly on the grates where it will catch all the delicious drippings from the meatball above.

Step 3 — Smoke the Meatball

Position the large meatball on a rack directly above your empty pot. Close the lid and smoke until the meatball develops a rich, dark bark and reaches an internal temperature of 150°F, about 2 hours.

Step 4 — Build Your Chili Base

While the meatball smokes, sauté onions and garlic in a separate pan. Add canned tomatoes, beans, broth, and additional seasonings to create your liquid base. Transfer this mixture to the pot beneath the meatball during the final 30 minutes of smoking.

Step 5 — Break Down the Meatball

Once the meatball reaches 150°F internally, carefully drop it into the simmering chili base below. Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to break the meatball into bite-sized chunks, distributing the smoky flavor throughout the chili.

Step 6 — Simmer and Thicken

Continue cooking the chili with the lid on for another 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The chili is ready when it reaches your desired thickness and the flavors have fully melded together.

Step 7 — Check for Doneness

Test your Over the Top Chili Recipe for perfect texture. The meat should be tender but not mushy, and the chili should coat the back of a spoon without being too watery. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Remove the chili from heat and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to intensify and the consistency to thicken slightly, resulting in a more cohesive final dish.

Step 9 — Garnish and Serve

Ladle your Over the Top Chili Recipe into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or fresh cilantro. The dramatic presentation and incredible smoky flavor will impress everyone at your table.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	28g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Lighter protein option that still absorbs chili spices beautifully while reducing saturated fat.
• Plant-Based Ground — Excellent meat-free alternative that provides similar texture and works wonderfully with traditional chili seasonings.
• Extra Beans, Less Meat — Boost fiber and plant-based protein while cutting back on animal fats for a heart-healthy twist on this Over the Top Chili Recipe.
• Cauliflower Rice Instead of Beans — Perfect low-carb substitution that adds vegetable bulk without the carbohydrates.
• Nutritional Yeast Instead of Cheese — Provides cheesy flavor without dairy, ideal for lactose-sensitive chili lovers.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Tomatoes — Significantly reduces sodium content while maintaining the rich liquid base essential to great chili.
• Corn Tortillas Instead of Crackers — Gluten-free serving option that adds authentic southwestern crunch without wheat products.
• Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream — Creamy topping with more protein and less fat, complementing the spicy notes of your chili perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Over the Top Chili Recipe with warm cornbread or fluffy corn muffins for a classic, comforting combination.
• Top with classic garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro.
• This hearty chili is perfect for game day, a casual family dinner, or any large gathering where a crowd-pleasing meal is needed.
• For a fun presentation, serve the Over the Top Chili Recipe in individual bread bowls for a memorable and edible container.
• Create a chili bar with various toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, and oyster crackers, allowing guests to customize their bowls.
• Pair with a simple side salad to balance the richness of this robust chili.

This Over the Top Chili Recipe is incredibly versatile and satisfying, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any casual meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean ground beef that lacks fat for flavor. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef; the rendered fat bastes the chili as it cooks.
• Mistake: Skipping the sear on the meatball, leading to less flavor development. Fix: Ensure your smoker or grill is hot to get a good crust before indirect cooking.
• Mistake: Adding beans too early, causing them to become mushy. Fix: Stir in drained, canned beans during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pot with vegetables, which can steam instead of sauté. Fix: Cook onions and peppers in batches if necessary to achieve caramelization.
• Mistake: Using old, stale spices that have lost their potency. Fix: Toast whole spices and grind them fresh, or buy new ground spices annually.
• Mistake: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving. Fix: Season gradually with salt and taste after the meatball has simmered into the chili.
• Mistake: Rushing the simmer, which prevents flavors from melding. Fix: Let the Over the Top Chili Recipe simmer for at least 1-2 hours for depth.
• Mistake: Adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes too early, which can toughen meat. Fix: Incorporate tomatoes after the meat has begun to break down and tenderize.
• Mistake: Using a thin, weak broth as the liquid base. Fix: Use a rich beef stock or even a dark beer to build a robust foundation.
• Mistake: Shredding the meatball too finely, losing its hearty texture. Fix: Break the cooked meatball into large, rustic chunks for the perfect bite.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Over the Top Chili Recipe completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Store the chili in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in a covered, microwave-safe dish. Ensure the chili reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Always allow your Over the Top Chili Recipe to cool to room temperature within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth before storing.

Conclusion

This Over the Top Chili Recipe delivers incredible smoky flavor and tender meat that’s worth the extra effort. Perfect for game days or cozy dinners, it’s sure to become a favorite. Give this chili a try and share your results in the comments below!

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FAQs

What makes this Over the Top Chili Recipe different from regular chili?

This Over the Top Chili Recipe uses a unique method where a meatloaf-style ball of seasoned ground beef is smoked or roasted above the chili pot. As it cooks, the rendered fat and juices drip into the chili below, creating an incredibly rich and smoky flavor that sets it apart from traditional stovetop versions.

Can I make this Over the Top Chili Recipe without a smoker?

Yes, you can still make this Over the Top Chili Recipe using an oven. Place the meatball on a rack set over a baking sheet with the chili pot beneath it. Roast at a high temperature to simulate the rendering and dripping effect, though the smoky flavor will be milder without a smoker.

What are the best toppings for Over the Top Chili?

Classic toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro pair wonderfully with this hearty Over the Top Chili Recipe. The rich, meaty base stands up well to cool, creamy, and crunchy additions, enhancing the overall eating experience.