Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls recipe is a true comfort food classic that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and chilly evenings. The combination of hearty chili with sweet, soft cinnamon rolls is simply irresistible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet satisfying or for those moments when friends drop by unexpectedly.

What makes this dish extra special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s a sure crowd-pleaser! So gather around the table, because this delightful pairing will make everyone feel right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have dinner ready in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this hearty chili served alongside sweet cinnamon rolls.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings.
• Easy to Customize: Tailor the flavors to your liking with simple variations.
• Delicious Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look!

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 cheese
• Corn chips
• Sour cream

Variations

One of the best parts about this Hillbilly Chili is how flexible it is! Feel free to add your own twist with these ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper!
• Make it vegetarian: Swap out the beef for a mix of beans or lentils to create a hearty meatless version.

How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, brown your ground beef until fully cooked. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to your chili base. Make sure to break up any clumps so every bite is packed with goodness!

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until they are soft and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and complements the savory flavors of the beef.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in your mild chili powder along with salt and pepper. Letting these spices cook for just a minute will release their aromas and deepen the flavor profile of your dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add in the chili beans, tomato juice, granulated sugar, and broken pasta. Stir everything together well. The sugar helps balance out acidity from the tomatoes while adding a little sweetness to set off those robust chili flavors!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low—let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping everything nice and hearty.

Step 6: Serve with Cinnamon Rolls

While your chili simmers, prepare some classic cinnamon rolls on the side if you like! Serve them warm alongside your bowl of Hillbilly Chili for that perfect sweet-and-savory combo that everyone will adore.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a breeze when you follow these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right ground beef: Opting for ground round or ground sirloin ensures a leaner chili without sacrificing flavor. This helps keep the chili hearty yet not overly greasy.

• Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with 1 tablespoon of chili powder and taste before adding more. This allows you to customize the spice level to your preference while keeping it flavorful.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and quality tomato juice can significantly enhance the overall taste of your chili. They provide vibrant flavors and aromas that canned alternatives might lack.

• Cook low and slow: Consider simmering your chili on low heat for a longer period if time allows. This deepens the flavors and creates a more harmonious dish that warms the soul.

• Prep ahead: You can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even better on day two!

How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Hillbilly Chili with warm cinnamon rolls is not only comforting but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful meal!

Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar adds a creamy, rich texture that complements the chili perfectly.
• Corn chips: Crushed corn chips provide an enjoyable crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the soft noodles in the chili.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and helps mellow out any spiciness in the chili, balancing flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic side pairs beautifully with chili, providing a sweet contrast that enhances each bite.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with fresh greens and tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty chili.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutritional value without overpowering the main dish. Its bright color also makes for an appealing plate!
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy an extra kick, pickled jalapeños serve as a zesty side that adds flavor without overwhelming your palate.

Enjoy creating this delicious combination of Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls! It’s bound to be a hit at any gathering or cozy family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go during the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best results, keep garnishes like shredded cheddar and sour cream separate until serving.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Add a splash of tomato juice if it’s too thick upon reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls:

Can I make Hillbilly Chili in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! To make Hillbilly Chili in an Instant Pot, sauté the ground beef and onions using the sauté function. Then add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Let it naturally release for best flavor!

What goes well with Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls?

Hillbilly Chili pairs wonderfully with classic midwestern cinnamon rolls. You can also serve it with cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the spice level in Hillbilly Chili?

Yes! If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder. Conversely, for more heat, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

How long does Hillbilly Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Hillbilly Chili can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. Feel free to put your own spin on it, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!