Hawaiian-Style Chili

 

 

When you think of chili, you probably picture a rich, savory, and slightly spicy stew that’s perfect for cold nights. But what if you gave that classic comfort food a tropical twist? That’s exactly what happens with Hawaiian-Style Chili—a hearty, flavorful dish enhanced with sweet, juicy pineapple. The combination of traditional chili ingredients with fruity brightness creates a balance that’s unexpected, refreshing, and completely irresistible.

This recipe makes a big batch, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even meal prep. And if you’re cooking for a smaller household, it’s easy to make a half-batch and still enjoy all the flavors without too many leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Chili

• Tropical flair: Pineapple adds a natural sweetness that balances the savory spices.

• Hearty & filling: Packed with ground beef, beans, and vegetables for a satisfying meal.

• Great for crowds: Large-batch recipe that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.

• One-pot wonder: Everything comes together in a Dutch oven with minimal cleanup.

• Customizable: Adjust spice levels or try with ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 6 onions, chopped

• 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped

• 2 cans (16 oz each) stewed tomatoes, with juice

• 2 cans (15.5 oz each) kidney beans, with liquid

• 1 can (16 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (16 oz) pineapple chunks, drained

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
Heat a large Dutch oven over high heat until hot. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir in the onions and bell peppers, cooking until the meat has browned and the onions are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat using a large mesh strainer, pressing to remove as much as possible.

Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
Return the cooked meat mixture to the Dutch oven. Add the stewed tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans with liquid, tomato sauce, and pineapple chunks. Season with chili powder and salt, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. It pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. For an extra touch, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

• Spice it up: Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier chili.

• Swap the meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option.

• Make it vegetarian: Replace the beef with lentils or extra beans for a plant-based version.

• Meal prep friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian-Style Chili is proof that sometimes the best recipes come from combining the unexpected. The savory depth of chili spices paired with the sweetness of pineapple makes this dish unique, flavorful, and comforting. It’s a recipe that stands out at any gathering and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.