Introduction

When you think of chili, you probably picture a hearty bowl of spicy beef and beans, best enjoyed on a cool evening. But this Hawaiian-Style Chili brings a refreshing twist to the classic, infusing it with a touch of tropical sweetness that instantly transports your taste buds.

By combining rich ground beef, tender vegetables, and the natural sweetness of pineapple, this recipe balances savory, spicy, and sweet in every spoonful. It’s comfort food with a sunny personality, perfect for those who want something familiar yet exciting.

Best of all, it’s an easy weeknight dinner recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you make it in a Dutch oven, a slow cooker, or double the batch for meal prep, this chili is as versatile as it is delicious.

 

 

What You Need

Ingredients:

• Ground Beef – 2 pounds
• Onions – 6, chopped
• Red Bell Peppers – 2, seeded and chopped
• Stewed Tomatoes – 2 cans (16 oz each), with juice
• Kidney Beans – 2 cans (15.5 oz each), with liquid
• Tomato Sauce – 1 can (16 oz)
• Pineapple Chunks – 1 can (16 oz), drained
• Chili Powder – 2 tablespoons
• Salt – 2 teaspoons

 

How to Make Hawaiian-Style Chili

1. Brown the Beef (5 minutes): Heat a Dutch oven over high heat. Cook the ground beef until just pink.
2. Add Vegetables (5 minutes): Stir in onions and peppers. Cook until softened.
3. Drain (Optional): Remove excess fat for a lighter chili.
4. Mix in Cans: Return beef and veggies to pot. Add tomatoes, beans, sauce, and pineapple.
5. Season: Stir in chili powder and salt.
6. Simmer (10 minutes): Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Let flavors meld.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Top with cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

 

Why You’ll Love This Chili

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Mild spice with a touch of sweetness—kids love it!
• Versatile: Works in a Dutch oven, slow cooker, or even meal-prep containers.
• Comfort Food Upgrade: A cozy bowl with a tropical twist.

 

Tips for Success

• Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a brighter flavor.
• Add a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
• If you love heat, toss in a chopped jalapeño or extra chili powder.
• For a leaner option, swap beef with ground turkey or chicken.

 

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
• Low-Carb: Skip the beans and serve over cauliflower rice.
• Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef, then cook everything on low for 6 hours.
• Spicy Hawaiian Chili: Add hot sauce or diced green chiles.

 

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Chili tastes even better the next day.
2. Can I freeze Hawaiian Chili? Absolutely—store in airtight containers up to 3 months.
3. What can I serve with it? Rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips.
4. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Yes, it’s mild with a touch of sweetness.
5. Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, but canned adds richness and consistency.
6. What beans work best? Kidney beans are classic, but black beans also work.
7. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes—skip the sour cream and cheese toppings.
8. Can I double the recipe? Definitely—perfect for meal prep or parties.
9. How do I thicken chili? Simmer uncovered longer or stir in a spoonful of tomato paste.
10. Is this gluten-free? Yes, just ensure canned ingredients are certified GF.

 

 

Health Benefits

This chili isn’t just delicious—it’s nourishing too. Lean protein from beef, fiber from beans, and vitamin-rich pineapple make it a balanced, hearty meal. The addition of bell peppers and onions boosts antioxidants and flavor without extra calories.

How to Serve

• Ladle over steamed rice for a tropical-style chili bowl.
• Pair with buttery cornbread for classic comfort.
• Serve in bread bowls for a cozy dinner presentation.

 

Make Ahead & Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare 1 day in advance; flavors deepen overnight.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer bags for up to 3 months.

 

Conclusion

This Hawaiian-Style Chili is everything you love about chili—hearty, warm, and comforting—with a tropical surprise in every bite. Whether you serve it as a quick weeknight dinner, a slow cooker meal on game day, or a make-ahead freezer option, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.