Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and satisfies the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls recipe is a cherished favorite in my kitchen. It’s an easy homemade chili spaghetti recipe that beautifully pairs with soft and sweet cinnamon rolls, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The delightful blend of spices and hearty ingredients in the chili will make your home smell divine, while the cinnamon rolls add a comforting touch that everyone loves.

This dish is not just about flavors; it’s about bringing people together over a warm meal. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or simply enjoying a quiet evening with family, this recipe is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and comforting textures of this dish.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chili in advance, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it with classic cinnamon rolls or any bread you have on hand—there are no wrong choices!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Hillbilly Chili! These staples will help create the rich and comforting flavors that make this recipe so special.

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 (as desired)
• Corn chips (as desired)
• Sour cream (as desired)

Variations

One of the best things about this Hillbilly Chili is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still packs a punch.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to amp up the nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give it a kick.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans for a hearty meat-free version.

How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial as it adds depth of flavor to your chili. Break up the meat as it cooks until it’s nice and browned—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Next, add in your diced onions with the cooked beef. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant—this usually takes around 3-4 minutes. The sweetness from the onions will beautifully complement the spices in your chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the mild chili powder, followed by the canned chili beans (don’t drain them!), tomato juice, spaghetti pieces, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every ingredient is coated with those lovely spices.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Allow your chili mixture to simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This simmering time helps all those wonderful flavors meld together perfectly while cooking your spaghetti right in that savory sauce!

Step 5: Prepare Your Cinnamon Rolls

While your chili simmers away, prepare classic midwestern cinnamon rolls according to your favorite recipe or use store-bought ones for convenience! They should be warm and fluffy by the time your chili is ready.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once your chili has thickened slightly and is bubbling away happily on the stove, it’s time to serve! Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with shredded cheddar, corn chips, and dollops of sour cream if desired. Pair each bowl with those scrumptious cinnamon rolls on the side for dipping—a match made in heaven!

Enjoy every bite of this comforting Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls; it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Making a delicious pot of Hillbilly Chili is easier than you think, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose Quality Meat: Using ground round or sirloin not only reduces excess fat but also enhances the flavor of your chili. This choice gives you a hearty base without overwhelming greasiness.

• Perfect Your Pasta: Breaking the spaghetti into thirds before cooking helps it mix better with the chili. You want those noodles to soak up all the incredible flavors while remaining tender—not mushy.

• Season Gradually: Start with 1 tablespoon of chili powder, taste as you go, and adjust according to your heat preference. This ensures that your chili has just the right kick without being overwhelming.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer for longer, if time permits, deepens the flavors significantly. A solid 30 minutes is great, but an hour can make it even more delicious.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to add your personal touch with garnishes like shredded cheese or corn chips. These add texture and flavor contrast that can really enhance each bite.

How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Presenting your Hillbilly Chili alongside freshly baked cinnamon rolls creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Here are some fun ways to serve this delightful combo!

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheddar: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese adds creaminess and depth to each bowl.
• Corn Chips: Crispy corn chips provide a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth chili perfectly.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can cool down the spice and adds a rich creaminess that balances flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Classic Cornbread: Warm cornbread is a staple side that pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up all those flavorful juices.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini not only add color but also bring a sweet caramelization that enhances the overall meal.
• Jalapeño Corn Muffins: These spicy muffins bring an extra kick and pair well with both chili and cinnamon rolls, making them a delightful addition to your table.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for gathering friends and family around the table! Enjoy every savory bite of your Hillbilly Chili served alongside warm cinnamon rolls!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a cozy dinner throughout the week. It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it an excellent choice for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through heating.

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about this comforting dish, here are some common questions!

Can I make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply brown the ground beef and onion first, then add all ingredients except for the pasta into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cooked pasta just before serving.

What toppings go well with Hillbilly Chili?

You can top your Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, or a dollop of sour cream. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions also make great garnishes!

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure to season it well to maintain that rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do! It’s simple enough for any night yet special enough to impress friends. Happy cooking!