Marlboro Chili Recipe – Easy Kitchen Guide

By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on October 11, 2023
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Whether you prefer the Marlboro Award-Winning Spicy Chili Recipe or the Headquarters Chili from the Marlboro Chili Book, there’s no denying that this dish is a true testament to cowboy cooking at its finest. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that has stood the test of time, making it a staple in many households. So, if you’re looking for a chili recipe that packs a punch and leaves a lasting impression, the Marlboro chili recipe is worth trying.

In this document, we will explore the history of chili and its significance in American culture. We will also provide tips on how to make the perfect chili and share some delicious recipes for you to try at home.

Marlboro Chili Recipe

What is Marlboro chili?

The Marlboro chili recipe, renowned for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, has been a long-standing favorite in many households. This recipe takes a departure from the typical chili recipes out there, offering a unique blend of spices that sets it apart. Originating from the Marlboro Country, this chili recipe has gained fame not only for its robust taste but also for its history. The recipe became popular through promotions by Philip Morris back in 1979, and since then, it’s been embraced by food enthusiasts worldwide.

There are several variations of the Marlboro chili recipe, each with its unique twist. Some versions call for lean ground beef and green peppers, while others incorporate cubed beef and suet. Regardless of the variation, one thing remains constant – the use of a specific blend of spices, including cumin, chili powder, and coriander. These spices, combined with other ingredients like red chili pepper flakes and tomatoes, create an explosion of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love this Marlboro chili?

Apart from its mouthwatering taste, there are several other reasons why you’ll love the Marlboro chili. For one, it’s a versatile dish that can be served in many ways – as a topping for hot dogs and burgers, as a dip with tortilla chips, or as a standalone meal with some crusty bread on the side.

Moreover, this chili recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd. It can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate larger gatherings, making it an ideal choice for game day parties, potlucks, and other social events.

But perhaps the biggest reason why you’ll love this chili is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and simple cooking techniques, even novice cooks can whip up a delicious batch of Marlboro chili in no time.

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The Ingredients 

  • Coarsely Ground Beef: This is the primary source of protein in the chili. The coarseness of the beef adds texture and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Choosing lean beef cuts down on the fat content, making the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
  • Green Peppers: These add a vibrant color, a hint of sweetness, and a little crunch to the chili. Green peppers also contain a good amount of vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for your health.
  • Vegetable Oil: This is used to sauté the onions, garlic, and green peppers. It helps bring out their flavors and aromas, which are essential to the overall taste of the chili.
  • Onions: These are fundamental in building the flavor foundation of the chili. When sautéed, they release a sweet aroma that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • Diced Tomatoes: They contribute to the body of the chili, providing a tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the beef. The juice from the canned tomatoes also helps to create the liquid base of the chili.
  • Chili Powder: This is a key ingredient in any chili recipe. It gives the dish its characteristic spicy flavor. The heat level can be adjusted according to personal preference.
  • Garlic: Garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients. It’s crushed to release its aromatic oils, contributing to the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
  • Water: This is used to adjust the consistency of the chili. Some like their chili thick and hearty, while others prefer it a bit more soup-like. The amount of water you add can help achieve your desired consistency.
  • Pinto Beans: These add a hearty element to the chili. They’re high in fiber and protein, making the dish more filling. Their mild flavor absorbs the spices well, contributing to the overall taste.
  • Ground Cumin: This spice is often used in chili recipes for its warm, earthy flavor. It complements the flavors of the chili powder and beef, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
  • Tabasco Hot Sauce: This adds an extra kick to the chili. Its vinegar base also adds a slight tanginess, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients. The heat level can be adjusted according to personal preference.
Marlboro Chili Copycat Recipe

Step by Step Instructions 

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  • In a large pot, place the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it turns brown and is fully cooked. To ensure a leaner dish, drain any excess fat that accumulates during this process.

Step 2: Add Green Peppers and Onions

  • Introduce diced green peppers and onions into the pot. Sauté them for approximately 5 minutes, or until they become slightly softened. This step adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the chili.

Step 3: Season with Aromatics

  • Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and hot sauce. Continue to cook for an additional one to two minutes, or until the mixture becomes fragrant. These seasonings will infuse the chili with a robust and spicy flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Water

  • Now, add the diced tomatoes and water to the pot. Stir thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined. The tomatoes will contribute a rich, tomatoey base to your chili.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

  • Increase the heat to bring the chili to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the chili to simmer gently for approximately 30 minutes. This simmering period allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Step 6: Add Pinto Beans

  • Stir in pinto beans and continue to cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are heated through, and the chili reaches your desired consistency. The beans add a hearty and wholesome element to the dish.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

  • Serve the chili hot, ladling it into bowls. It’s time to customize! Garnish your chili with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add a delightful finishing touch and allow each person to tailor their bowl to their taste.

Notes 

  • For a thicker chili, use less water. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more water.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your preferred level of spiciness.
  • Experiment with different toppings to customize the dish to your liking. Some popular options include avocado, jalapenos, and corn chips.
How to Make Marlboro Chili Recipe

Nutrition Information

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How to store Marlboro chili?

Leftover Marlboro chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the desired amount to a pot and warm it up over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.

If you want to make a larger batch of this chili and freeze it for later use, simply let it cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw and reheat, transfer the chili to the fridge overnight and then warm it up over medium heat on the stove.

Variations 

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add in more beans or use a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or TVP (textured vegetable protein).
  • Switch up the type of beans used. Black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas would all work well in this chili.
  • Add in some diced canned tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick of flavor.
  • For a heartier chili, add some diced potatoes or sweet potatoes with the beans.
  • If you prefer a milder chili, omit the hot sauce and reduce the amount of chili powder. You can also add some brown sugar to balance out the heat.
How to Make Marlboro Chili Recipe

Marlboro Chili Recipe

Whether you prefer the Marlboro Award-Winning Spicy Chili Recipe or the Headquarters Chili from the Marlboro Chili Book, there’s no denying that this dish is a true testament to cowboy cooking at its finest.
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Author: Lori Walker, MS, RD
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 32
Calories: 477kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 Small Green Peppers
  • 6 pounds of Coarsely Ground Beef
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
  • 4 Medium Onions thinly sliced
  • 96 ounces of Diced Tomatoes
  • 8 tablespoons Chili Powder
  • 4 Cloves of Garlic crushed
  • 2 cups Water
  • 96 ounces of Pinto Beans
  • 4 teaspoons Ground Cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco Hot Sauce

Instructions

  • In a large pot, cook the beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  • Add the green peppers and onions to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they slightly soften.
  • Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and hot sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the diced tomatoes and water, and stir to combine all the ingredients.
  • Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
  • Stir in the pinto beans and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes until they’re heated through and the chili reaches your desired consistency.
  • Serve the chili hot, garnished with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, use less water. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more water.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your preferred level of spiciness.
  • Experiment with different toppings to customize the dish to your liking. Some popular options include avocado, jalapenos, and corn chips.
Keyword: Marlboro Chili Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. However, canned diced tomatoes are often used in chili recipes for their convenience and consistency. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure they are thoroughly ripe for the best flavor.

2. How can I adjust the spiciness of this chili?

You can adjust the spiciness by controlling the amount of chili powder and Tabasco hot sauce. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the quantities stated in the recipe. Conversely, if you like your chili extra spicy, feel free to add more.

3. Why are Pinto beans used in this recipe? Can I use other types of beans?

Pinto beans were chosen for their mild flavor and ability to absorb the spices well. However, you can substitute other types of beans according to your preference. Kidney beans or black beans would also work well in this recipe.

4. What’s the purpose of adding water to the chili recipe?

Water is used to adjust the consistency of the chili. Some people like their chili thick and hearty, while others prefer it more soup-like. The amount of water you add can help you achieve your desired consistency.

Wrapping Up

The Marlboro chili is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. With its simple ingredients and easy cooking instructions, it’s a perfect option for feeding a crowd or satisfying your chili cravings on a cold day. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – we guarantee you’ll love it!

Also, share your variations and tips for making this chili in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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Lori-Walker

My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more

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