Dave’s 5 Alarm Chili is a hot one!
It has all the right spices and cooks low and slow for an amazing chili that is worth the wait. We like to spread this over steamed beef tamales. If you don’t have any fresh ones –Â either homemade or from a local Latin market, an easy substitute are XLNT Beef Tamales. They can be found in the freezer section of most markets and while they are not by any means comparable to fresh homemade, they do in a pinch.
This chili is so rich in flavor and cooks down to a nice, thick, almost sauce, consistency. The Cayenne, Ancho, California, red pepper flakes and smoked paprika add the heat while the garlic, cumin and other spices add the depth of flavors. Topped with some chopped fresh onions and shredded sharp cheddar cheese and this makes for a wonderful, home cooked meal on a cold night.

Dave's 5 Alarm Chili
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbs of ground beef
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup California Chili Powder
- 1/4 cup Ancho Chili Powder
- 1/4 cup Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped garlic
- 1 32 oz can Roasted Crushed Tomatoes
- 1 large onion chopped
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a stock pot or casserole dish like my Le Crueset
- Turn heat to medium and stir to mix. Slowly over a five minute period break up with wooden spoon.
- Cover with lid and simmer for 2 hours. Remove lid and stir to mix. Chili should be breaking down. Season if need be and cook for another 2 hours on low covered.
- Serve over steamed tamales topped with chopped onions and shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice.
This is delicious, but super hot, a bit too hot for us. Will try reducing some of the chili powder by half for next time. 🙂
I am glad you enjoyed it! That should help yes!
There is nothing more comforting to me than a spicy bowl of piping hot chili.
I have to agree!
This is the best chili recipe ever! So flavorful and spicy … just the way we like it. Will be making it again!
Yay! I love hearing that! Thank you for sharing!
This is our go to chili recipe, It has just the right amount of heat and everyone loves it!
I am so glad to hear that!
Mmm, mmm, spicy chili goodness right here. Perfect for these colder days.
Spicy is always a great option!