Aloha, Chili Lovers!
Have you ever had chili served over rice? If you’re from Hawaii, you probably grew up on it. But for the rest of us, this may be a deliciously surprising new tradition to try with your family! Today I’m sharing a family-friendly recipe that brings a little aloha spirit right to your dinner table—Hawaiian Chili. It’s sweet, savory, a little smoky, and super comforting. And yes, it’s served over a fluffy bed of white rice. Yum!
This isn’t your average chili. It’s packed with flavor thanks to Portuguese sausage (or beef kielbasa if you can’t find it), crispy bacon, tender ground beef, and a few fun, unexpected ingredients—like mayonnaise (trust me on this one, mama!). This chili is rich, thick, and perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Let’s dive into how to make this easy and flavorful Hawaiian-style chili.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chili
- It’s a one-pot wonder – Less mess = more mom sanity!
- Family-friendly flavors – Slightly sweet, smoky, and comforting.
- Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice, protein, or beans to your liking.
- Authentically Hawaiian – Chili and rice is a staple in local plate lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this amazing pot of Hawaiian Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 Portuguese sausages, chopped (or use beef kielbasa if unavailable)
- 3 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped (about 2 stalks)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (yes, really!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice for serving
How to Make Hawaiian Chili: Step-by-Step
1. Start with the Meats
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it starts to get crispy. Add the chopped Portuguese sausage and cook until browned. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink.
2. Add the Veggies and Spices
Toss in the onion and celery, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the Beans and Sauce
Pour in the kidney beans, pinto beans, and tomato sauce. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and water. Then—here’s the secret ingredient—add the mayonnaise. Stir everything together until it’s creamy and well combined.
4. Simmer Uncovered
Let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the liquid to reduce, resulting in a rich, thick chili.
5. Serve Island Style
Scoop your chili over a fluffy bed of hot white rice.
Mom Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chili
Mom Tip: Don’t skip the mayo! It adds an unexpected creaminess and depth of flavor you didn’t know your chili needed.
Mom Tip: Make a double batch and freeze half. This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Mom Tip: Start the rice cooker at the same time you start cooking the meat that way they’re done at the same time.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meats first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Is this chili spicy?
It has a mild warmth from the chili powder, but it’s not too spicy. You can kick it up with jalapeños or cayenne pepper if desired.
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely. Great northern beans or cannellini beans work great too.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you really must skip the mayo, you can try sour cream or Greek yogurt, but the flavor and texture won’t be quite the same.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts: Bring the Island to Your Table
There’s just something magical about this Hawaiian Chili. It’s cozy, hearty, and full of those rich, savory-sweet flavors we moms love to serve up on busy weeknights. And when it’s spooned over rice? Pure comfort in a bowl.
I hope you give this recipe a try and bring a little tropical flair to your dinner table. Your family will love it—and you’ll love how easy it is to throw together!
Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later! 🌺
Happy cooking!
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