![['Close-up view of a hearty bowl of Bourbon Trail Chili with visible ingredients.', 'Side perspective of Bourbon Trail Chili showcasing ground beef, beans, and peppers.', 'Detailed shot of a chili bowl filled with ground beef, green peppers, and garnishes.', 'Juicy Bourbon Trail Chili in a bowl, highlighting its rich texture and vibrant ingredients.']](https://quickflavorfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/bourbon-trail-chili_1_U1.webp)
Bourbon Trail Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili infused with bourbon, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2.5 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried ground sage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 green bell peppers green bell peppers, seeded and diced
- 0.5 cup orange juice
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons bourbon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons minced chipotle pepper in adobo
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups water or beef broth
- 15.5 ounces black beans, well drained
- 15.5 ounces Great Northern beans, well drained
- 0.5 cup bourbon, such as Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select
Garnishes
- sour cream (for garnish)
- shredded cheddar (for garnish)
- thinly sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a Dutch oven, season with salt and pepper, then drain and set aside.
- Add olive oil, garlic, oregano, sage, onion, and peppers; sauté until vegetables soften (~5 min).
- Deglaze with orange juice, then add chili powder, paprika, cumin, chipotle, salt, and tomatoes; bring to simmer.
- Stir in water or broth, beans, and meat; simmer 15 min, add bourbon, then cook 15-20 min until thickened.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the chili rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.