Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful blend of hearty flavors and comforting textures, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With its rich, savory taste and the sweetness of cinnamon rolls on the side, this dish becomes a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just want to enjoy a warm meal at home, this recipe promises satisfaction and smiles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious chili in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef and chili beans creates a robust taste that warms the soul.
- Perfect Pairing: The addition of cinnamon rolls adds a sweet contrast that elevates the meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is, or customize with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese and sour cream.
- Hearty Portions: This recipe serves eight, making it ideal for family meals or potlucks.
Tools and Preparation
Cooking Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls requires some essential kitchen tools. Having these tools ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Chopping knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering chili evenly and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Chopping knife: Essential for quickly dicing onions and other vegetables to prepare your chili base.

Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1-2 Tbs. mild chili powder
- 2 lbs. ground beef (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. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- Shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream (for garnish)
For the Cinnamon Rolls
You can serve classic cinnamon rolls alongside this dish to complete your meal.
How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
This Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is an easy homemade chili spaghetti recipe we suggest serving with classic midwestern cinnamon rolls.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Onions and Spices
Add the diced onion to the pot:
1. Sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
2. Stir in the mild chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Next, add:
1. The broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta,
2. Chili beans,
3. Tomato juice,
4. Granulated sugar.
Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil:
1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Cover and let simmer for about 25 minutes or until pasta is cooked al dente.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked:
1. Serve hot in bowls.
2. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream as desired.
Enjoy your hearty Hillbilly Chili alongside sweet cinnamon rolls!
How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful combination that embodies comfort food at its best. Perfect for gatherings, this dish pairs hearty chili with soft, sweet cinnamon rolls for a satisfying meal.
Garnishing the Chili
- Shredded Cheddar: Add a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Corn Chips: Crush some corn chips over the chili for an added crunch that complements the softness of the rolls.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings coolness and balances the spice from the chili.
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh, herby finish that brightens up the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
- Classic Midwestern Cinnamon Rolls: Serve warm cinnamon rolls on the side to enhance the sweetness against the spicy chili.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can add freshness to your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Warm cornbread muffins will soak up any extra chili sauce while adding a touch of sweetness.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like extra heat, pickled jalapeños are a zesty addition.
How to Perfect Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
To perfect your Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls, following some simple tips can elevate your dish. These suggestions will help ensure your chili is flavorful and your rolls are deliciously fluffy.
- Use Quality Meat: Opt for ground round or sirloin. These cuts provide great flavor without excess fat.
- Cook Onions Until Soft: Sauté diced onions until they are golden brown before adding other ingredients for deeper flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Start with 1 tablespoon of mild chili powder, then taste and adjust according to your preference for heat.
- Let it Simmer: Allow your chili to simmer longer if time permits; this enhances flavors as ingredients meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Pairing side dishes with Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this comforting duo.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm garlic breadsticks as they are perfect for dipping in leftover chili sauce.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili and sweet rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients while balancing out heaviness in the meal.
- Corn Pudding: This sweet and creamy dish pairs well with both chili and rolls, making it a comforting addition to your plate.
- Baked Potatoes: Baked potatoes serve as a filling side that can be topped with butter, cheese, or even an extra helping of chili!
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add a Southern twist that complements both dishes beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls can be simple, but a few mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can lead to a dry texture. Brown it just until fully cooked and drain excess fat for the best flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your chili bland. Remember to taste and adjust spices, especially chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Ignoring pasta cooking time: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the chili. Follow package instructions for cooking spaghetti or angel hair and add it towards the end of cooking.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Subpar ingredients can diminish your dish. Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor in your Hillbilly Chili.
- Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream elevate your dish. Don’t skip these toppings for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hillbilly Chili in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- You can freeze the chili for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.
Reheating Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
- Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hillbilly Chili different from traditional chili?
Hillbilly Chili often incorporates spaghetti noodles into the mix, creating a unique blend of flavors that combines classic chili with pasta. This makes it heartier and adds an interesting texture.
Can I make Hillbilly Chili in advance?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Prepare it a day before serving for an even better taste experience.
What are good garnishes for Hillbilly Chili?
Popular garnishes include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, corn chips, or fresh chopped green onions. These toppings enhance both flavor and presentation.
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option while still enjoying delicious flavors in your Hillbilly Chili.
How spicy is Hillbilly Chili?
The spice level can vary based on how much chili powder you use. Start with 1 tablespoon if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust according to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
This Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is not just simple; it’s satisfying and versatile too! Customize your chili by adding beans or extra veggies based on what you have available. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings as well—each addition brings something special. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is a comforting dish that brings together the hearty flavors of savory chili and the sweet warmth of cinnamon rolls. This classic American recipe features tender ground beef simmered to perfection with rich tomato juice, chili beans, and spices, creating a robust flavor profile that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The addition of soft cinnamon rolls offers a delightful contrast, making it a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. With straightforward preparation steps and customizable garnishes, this dish is easy to prepare and serves well for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1–2 Tbs. mild chili powder
- 2 lbs. ground beef (ground round or 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. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- Shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5–7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add diced onions and sauté until softened (3–4 minutes). Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine broken pasta, chili beans, tomato juice, and sugar; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover; simmer for about 25 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Serve hot with garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 355 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 81mg
