Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, you’ve found it! Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful combination that never fails to impress. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my family, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. The blend of hearty chili paired with sweet cinnamon rolls creates a unique dining experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a meal that’s not only delicious but also satisfying. Whether it’s game day or a chilly evening at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the comforting flavors of this chili, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chili in advance and simply reheat when it’s time to eat—ideal for busy schedules!
- Versatile Garnishes: Customize your bowl with shredded cheddar, corn chips, or sour cream to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Perfect Pairing: The sweet cinnamon rolls are an unexpected yet delightful match for the savory chili.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients. This recipe uses items you likely already have on hand, making it easy to put together anytime you’re craving comfort food!
For the Chili
- 1-2 Tbs. mild chili powder
- 2 lbs. ground beef (I typically use ground round or ground sirloin)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 oz. spaghetti or angel hair pasta, broken into thirds
- 1 15 oz. can chili beans, undrained
- 1 46 oz. can tomato juice
- 1 Tbs. granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. each kosher salt and pepper
For Garnishing
- Shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream (for garnishing the chili as desired)
Variations
One of the best things about this Hillbilly Chili recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have available.
- Swap the protein: Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or switch to spicy chili powder.
- Go vegetarian: Replace the beef with lentils or beans for a hearty meatless version.
How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the diced onions until they are translucent. Sautéing enhances their sweetness and lays the foundation for your flavorful chili.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned all over. Browning adds depth of flavor—this step is key!
Step 3: Mix in Spices and Ingredients
Once your beef is browned, stir in the mild chili powder along with salt and pepper. Then add the tomato juice and chili beans (don’t drain them!). This creates a rich base full of flavor.
Step 4: Add Pasta
Now it’s time to mix in your broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta. This will make your chili hearty! Let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Serve It Up!
Ladle generous portions into bowls and let everyone garnish their own with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream if they like. Don’t forget those warm cinnamon rolls on the side—they’re simply irresistible!
Enjoy digging into this delightful Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls! I hope it fills your home with warmth and joy just as it does mine!
Pro Tips for Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Creating the perfect Hillbilly Chili is all about maximizing flavor and texture, so here are some handy tips to help you out!
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Choose the right meat: Using ground round or ground sirloin not only makes the chili leaner but also lets the flavors of the spices shine through without being overwhelmed by excess fat.
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Break up the pasta: Breaking spaghetti or angel hair into thirds allows for better distribution throughout the chili, ensuring each bite has a satisfying mix of noodles and chili goodness.
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Let it simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes enhances the depth of flavors. The longer it cooks, the more the ingredients meld together, creating a richer taste.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the mild chili powder to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a bit more heat, adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can elevate your chili experience.
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Don’t skip the sugar: Adding a tablespoon of granulated sugar helps balance out the acidity of the tomato juice, resulting in a smoother and more rounded flavor profile.
How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
When it’s time to dig into your delicious Hillbilly Chili paired with warm cinnamon rolls, presentation can really elevate your meal. Here’s how to make serving this dish even more enjoyable!
Garnishes
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar adds creaminess and richness that perfectly complements the spiciness of the chili.
- Corn chips: Crushed corn chips provide an enjoyable crunch and additional texture that contrasts nicely with the soft chili.
- Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy element that balances out the warm spices in your chili.
Side Dishes
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Cornbread: This classic accompaniment is slightly sweet and offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of chili. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop!
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Green salad: A light green salad with fresh vegetables adds a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty nature of Hillbilly Chili.
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Pickled jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little heat, pickled jalapeños can be served on the side as an optional topping. They add a zesty kick that’s sure to excite your taste buds!
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Steamed rice: Rice is another fantastic option; it absorbs flavors beautifully and makes each bowl feel even heartier.
With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to enjoy a cozy meal that brings warmth and happiness to any table. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious meals ready whenever you need them.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer the chili to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Keep any leftover cinnamon rolls in a separate container.
Freezing
- Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Cinnamon rolls can also be frozen, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
Reheating
- For refrigerated chili, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
- For frozen chili, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or use a microwave-safe dish to reheat from frozen.
- Reheat cinnamon rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have while preparing this recipe!
What is Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls?
Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a comforting dish combining hearty chili made with ground beef, beans, and spices, served alongside sweet cinnamon rolls. It’s a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors!
Can I make Hillbilly Chili in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To make Hillbilly Chili in an Instant Pot, sauté your onions and beef first using the sauté function. Then add all other ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Quick release afterward!
What can I use instead of ground beef in Hillbilly Chili?
You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option. Both will work well while still giving you that great chili flavor.
How long does it take to prepare Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls?
The total time for making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is approximately 50 minutes, with just 20 minutes of prep time!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! It’s truly special; not only does it warm your belly, but it also brings people together around the table. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy night or during gatherings with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!
Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is the ultimate comfort food pairing that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. This delightful dish combines a rich, hearty chili made with ground beef and wholesome ingredients, served alongside sweet cinnamon rolls that offer a perfect contrast of flavors. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe is both quick to prepare and easy to customize based on your preferences. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy the warmth of this unique culinary experience, perfect for chilly evenings or game days.
Ingredients
- 1–2 Tbs. mild chili powder
- 2 lbs. ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 oz. spaghetti or angel hair pasta, broken into thirds
- 1 15 oz. can chili beans, undrained
- 1 46 oz. can tomato juice
- 1 Tbs. granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. each kosher salt and pepper
- Shredded cheddar, corn chips, sour cream (for garnishing as desired)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onions until translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in mild chili powder, salt, and pepper; then add chili beans (with liquid) and tomato juice.
- Mix in broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta; simmer for 20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Serve in bowls with optional garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
