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Bison Chili with Beer and Bacon

Bison Chili with Beer and Bacon is the perfect cool-weather recipe. Layers of bison, bacon, salsa, and beer leave you with big flavors, low calories, and plenty of protein. Gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free, too.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: beer chili recipe, ground bison recipes, homemade chili
Servings: 6
Author: Amy

Ingredients

  • 3 slices thick-cut bacon finely chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion finely chopped
  • 1 large garlic clove minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds lean ground bison
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sweet smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • About 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes 14.5 oz, or regular crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can salsa 8 oz
  • 1 cup beer choose a flavorful, medium-bodied beer, I used Green's
  • 1 can mixed beans 14.5 oz, or black beans, check label for gluten-free

Toppings:

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeno

Instructions

  • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, cook bacon, stirring until it just begins to brown, about 4 minutes.
  • Add bison, breaking up and stirring until slightly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
  • Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne and salt, stir to combine.
  • Push bison to the perimeter of pan making a clear spot in the center.
  • Add the onion and garlic to the center and stir cooking until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add tomatoes, salsa, and beer and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low, cover partially, and cook 30 minutes.
  • Add beans and cook 10 minutes, uncovered. Season to taste with salt. Serve warm, with toppings on the side.