Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’re in the right place! This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful combination that brings together comfort food at its best. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. The rich flavors of the chili paired with sweet cinnamon rolls create a unique experience that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it an easy go-to option when hunger strikes. Plus, it’s one of those meals that just gets better the longer it sits, which means leftovers are always a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. Who can resist chili topped with cheese and served alongside warm rolls?
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of savory chili and sweet cinnamon rolls creates a delightful balance that your taste buds will love.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chili ahead of time and reheat it, making it an ideal choice for busy days or gatherings.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite garnishes like shredded cheddar or corn chips to make each bowl uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to see that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe approachable for everyone. Gather these items for your Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls:

• 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
• shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream, for garnishing the chili as desired

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add some heat: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra spice.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with black beans or lentils for a delicious plant-based option.
• Change up the pasta: Try using different shapes of pasta like macaroni or even zucchini noodles if you want a low-carb twist.

How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until it’s cooked through. This step is essential as it adds depth to the flavor of your chili. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add the diced yellow onion to the pot with the beef and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This brings out their sweetness, which balances beautifully with the savory elements of your chili.

Step 3: Stir in Spices and Pasta

Next, stir in the mild chili powder along with your broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Allow everything to mingle together for about a minute before adding in your canned ingredients.

Step 4: Add Beans and Tomato Juice

Pour in the undrained chili beans along with the tomato juice, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those lovely flavors.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This allows all those ingredients to meld together perfectly while thickening up just right!

Step 6: Serve with Warm Cinnamon Rolls

While your chili simmers away, prepare some classic cinnamon rolls on the side (store-bought works great!). Once everything is ready, serve up bowls of chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream alongside those warm rolls for dipping.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delicious Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Making Hillbilly Chili is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right beef: Using ground round or ground sirloin provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor, ensuring your chili is hearty yet not too greasy.

• Season well: Don’t be shy with the chili powder! The right amount will enhance the depth of flavor in your chili, making it more satisfying and delicious.

• Cook pasta separately: For perfect texture, cooking the spaghetti or angel hair pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the chili. You can then mix it in just before serving for that ideal bite.

• Let it simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer than recommended can deepen its flavors even more. If you have time, let it cook for an hour to meld the spices beautifully.

• Customize your toppings: Get creative with garnishes like shredded cheese or corn chips. They not only add taste but also a wonderful texture contrast that makes your bowl visually appealing.

How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Hillbilly Chili alongside warm cinnamon rolls creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some ideas on how to present this classic dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar adds creaminess and richness that complements the chili’s spiciness.
• Corn chips: A handful of crunchy corn chips on top adds a delightful crunch, making each spoonful exciting.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream not only cools down the heat but also enriches the overall flavor profile of your chili.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisped up with butter and garlic, this bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful chili.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a nice contrast with its crunch and tangy dressing, balancing out the warmth of the chili.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with spicy chili, providing a comforting side that’s traditional in many Midwest homes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to create a memorable meal featuring Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your leftovers, freeze the chili, and reheat it for a quick meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool to room temperature.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat on the stove, warm over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or any other ground meat can be substituted for ground beef. Just adjust cooking time as necessary to ensure it’s fully cooked.

How do I make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls spicier?

To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of mild chili powder or adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Start small and taste as you go!

Can I use a different type of pasta with this chili?

Yes! While spaghetti or angel hair works great, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like macaroni or even gluten-free options if desired.

What toppings can I add to my Hillbilly Chili?

You can top your chili with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, corn chips, sour cream, or even fresh cilantro for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls! It’s a delightful dish that warms both heart and home. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, I know it will become a favorite. Happy cooking and don’t forget to treat yourself with those sweet cinnamon rolls on the side!