Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms the soul and brings everyone together, look no further than Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and chilly evenings spent with loved ones. The combination of rich, flavorful chili paired with sweet cinnamon rolls is simply irresistible! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over for a casual get-together. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a cherished favorite in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this comforting meal in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and delightful sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the chili ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of savory chili and sweet rolls creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand or can easily find at your local store. It’s all about bringing comfort food to your table without any fuss.

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 things about this Hillbilly Chili recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: If you like a bit more spice, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Go veggie: Substitute beans and lentils for meat to create a delicious vegetarian version.
• Top it differently: Experiment with toppings like avocado slices or fresh cilantro for an added twist.

How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by dicing your onion and sautéing it in a large pot over medium heat until it’s fragrant and translucent. This step is important because it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, adding depth to your chili.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Next, add in your ground beef. Cook until it’s browned all over, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your meat is cooked, stir in the mild chili powder, diced tomatoes, spaghetti pieces, chili beans (including their liquid), and tomato juice. Give everything a good mix—this is where all those hearty flavors start to come together!

Step 4: Season & Simmer

Add in the sugar, kosher salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while also cooking the pasta right in the pot.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, ladle your delicious Hillbilly Chili into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream as desired. Pair it with warm cinnamon rolls on the side for that perfect balance of savory and sweet—your family will be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a breeze with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out just right!

• Choose Your Beef Wisely: Using ground round or ground sirloin gives you a flavorful yet leaner chili, making it healthier without sacrificing taste.

• Mind the Seasoning: Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference. Starting with 1 tablespoon allows you to control the spice level, adding more if you desire a kick.

• Break Your Pasta Correctly: Breaking spaghetti or angel hair into thirds before cooking helps distribute the pasta evenly throughout the chili, ensuring every bite is delightful.

• Let It Simmer: After adding all ingredients, let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and hearty taste.

• Garnish Creatively: Don’t hold back on garnishes! Shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream not only enhance flavor but also add texture and visual appeal to your bowl of chili.

How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Hillbilly Chili alongside warm cinnamon rolls creates a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Present this delightful duo in a way that showcases their homemade charm!

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheddar: A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and richness that complements the spices in the chili.
• Corn Chips: Crunchy corn chips provide a delightful textural contrast and an extra layer of flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream cools down any heat from the chili while adding a creamy element that balances everything out.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a light contrast to the hearty chili.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up all those delicious juices while adding a bit of sweetness.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your plate, making it well-rounded.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, pickled jalapeños can be served on the side for an added kick whenever desired.

Enjoy preparing this heartwarming meal of Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls—it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping for a gathering, it stores and reheats beautifully.

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.
• If you’ve added garnishes like shredded cheddar or sour cream, consider storing them separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, allow the chili to cool before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

What can I serve with Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls?

Hillbilly Chili pairs wonderfully with classic midwestern cinnamon rolls. You can also enjoy it with cornbread or your favorite crackers for extra crunch!

Can I make Hillbilly Chili in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! To make Hillbilly Chili in an Instant Pot, sauté the onions and ground beef using the sauté function. Then add all other ingredients, set it to manual high pressure for 20 minutes, and let it naturally release.

How do I adjust the spice level of Hillbilly Chili?

To adjust the spice level in Hillbilly Chili, you can add more mild chili powder for warmth or include some diced jalapeños for a kick. Just remember to taste as you go!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this comforting Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! It’s a wonderful recipe that brings warmth and joy to any gathering or family dinner. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your garnishes and sides; there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delightful dish. Happy cooking!