This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Some chilis are cozy and classic—then there’s this one. My Bloody Mary Chili takes that rich, hearty comfort we all love and cranks up the flavor with a bold, zesty kick. The secret? A good splash of Bloody Mary mix that brings the perfect balance of spice, tang, and depth, making every bite downright irresistible. If you’re looking for a chili that’s anything but ordinary, this one’s for you!
For years, I just didn’t get the hype around Bloody Marys. They always seemed a little too strong, a little too…tomato-y for me. But that all changed on a long plane ride when I sat next to a sweet young lady sipping on one. She swore by Charleston Bold and Spicy, and I figured—why not give it a shot? Y’all… YUM. I don’t know if this mix is just that much better than the rest or if my taste buds have finally grown up (ha!), but I was instantly hooked.
The second I tasted it, I knew it had to go into a chili. I came home, got to work, and somehow nailed it on the first try! My family taste-tested, I sent some to a friend, and now? We’re all obsessed. This chili is rich, bold, and just the right amount of different. If you love a little spice and a lot of flavor, this one’s about to be your new go-to.
Nikki’s Recipe Rundown
- Taste: Savory, smoky, and a little spicy with a rich, deep flavor from the Bloody Mary mix.
- Texture: Thick and hearty with tender beans, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned ground beef.
- Ease: Simple steps with mostly hands-off cooking.
- Pros: The Bloody Mary mix does all the heavy lifting, making this chili complex without extra effort.
- Considerations: The vodka is totally optional—it won’t make or break the dish, so leave it out if you prefer!
- Recipe Worthy: 100% yes! This is one of those “why didn’t I make this sooner?” recipes.
Bloody Mary Chili Ingredients
- Ground Beef – Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, but don’t skip browning it well—it builds big flavor!
- Onion & Garlic – Fresh aromatics make all the difference; they add depth and a savory backbone.
- Tomato Paste – The squeeze tube is a game-changer for keeping leftovers fresh!
- Chili Powder & Spices – This combo brings warmth and layers of flavor. Don’t skimp on the chili powder!
- Bloody Mary Mix – The real star! Charleston Bold & Spicy is my favorite, but you can use your go-to brand. Charleston also carries a nonbold version too. You can get the mix on Amazon and Walmart. You can also check your local grocery stores.
- Vodka (Optional) – Helps intensify flavors, but the chili is fantastic even without it.
- Beans & Tomatoes – No need to drain the beans—those starchy juices help thicken the chili!
- Worcestershire Sauce – A little umami boost that ties everything together.
💡Shortcut Ideas 💡
- Use pre-chopped onions from the produce or freezer section and use minced garlic from a jar to save time.
- Skip the fresh garlic and use garlic powder instead (about ¼ teaspoon per clove). I would use 1 teaspoon in this recipe.
Variations and Substitutions for Bloody Mary Mix Chili
- Protein Swap – Use ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and chorizo for a different flavor.
- Spice Level – Add extra chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for more heat. Prefer it milder? Use a less spicy Bloody Mary mix.
- Beans – Swap kidney and navy beans for black beans, pinto beans, red beans or even chickpeas.
- No Vodka? No Problem! – Skip it or replace it with a splash of beef broth for depth.
- Extra Smoky Flavor – Add a little smoked paprika or stir in fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Low-Carb Option – Skip the beans and add more meat or veggies.
How To Make Bloody Mary Chili
✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it browns. Let it get a little crispy on the edges for extra flavor. Season with garlic salt while cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and cook for about a minute or two, just until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.
Step 3: Add Seasonings & Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and spices, making sure everything gets coated in that rich, concentrated tomato flavor. Let it cook for about a minute to bring out its sweetness.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquid Ingredients
Now, it’s time for the magic! Pour in the Bloody Mary mix, vodka (if using), beans (liquid and all), diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together so the flavors can start melding.
Step 5: Simmer & Serve
Cover the pot, lower the heat, and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Once the flavors have had time to blend and the chili has thickened, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve with your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Instructions for Bloody Mary Chili
Want to make this even easier? Let your slow cooker do the work! Here’s how:
Brown Beef & Saute Veggies
Complete steps 1 and 2 above. You can skip sauteing the onion and garlic if you’d like as a shortcut.
Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, celery seed, black pepper, sugar, Bloody Mary mix, vodka (if using), beans (with their liquid), diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce.
Cook Low & Slow
Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Low Setting: Cook for 6-8 hours
- High Setting: Cook for 3-4 hours
Stir & Serve
Once done, give the chili a good stir and taste. Adjust seasonings if needed. Serve with your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
Tip: If you like a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some liquid evaporate. You can also mash a few of the beans to thicken it.
Tips for The Best Chili Recipe
- Get a Good Sear on the Beef – Don’t rush the browning! Let the beef develop those crispy edges for extra flavor.
- Let It Simmer – The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld. That full hour makes all the difference! If you want it can cook longer on low.
- Stir Occasionally – This helps prevent sticking and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Adjust the Heat Level – Love it spicy? Add a few dashes of hot sauce or extra chili powder. Prefer it milder? Use a less spicy Bloody Mary mix, although as is it’s not overly spicy.
- Use the Right Bloody Mary Mix – Not all mixes are created equal! Charleston Bold and Spicy adds the perfect kick, but if using another brand, choose one with great flavor and spice.
- For a Thicker Chili – Let it simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes!
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! The vodka enhances the flavors, but it’s completely optional. The chili is just as delicious without it.
I swear by Charleston Bold and Spicy, but any high-quality mix with a good balance of spice and tang will work. If using a milder mix, you may want to add extra chili powder or a splash of hot sauce. If you have a favorite on hand, you can use that!
Nope! The liquid in the canned beans helps thicken the chili and adds more flavor.
Let it simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes or stir in some crushed tortilla chips or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
It has a little kick, but it’s not overly spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, use a milder Bloody Mary mix and reduce the chili powder. Want more heat? Add hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
Yes! Chili always tastes better the next day. Make it ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Want to Save this Recipe?
Enter your email below & we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get great new recipes from us every week!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Soulfully Made.
Storage
Make-Ahead: Chili always tastes better the next day! Cook it fully cool, and store it in the fridge.
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Reheat: Reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop. This recipe will leave about 1 cup of the Bloody Mary mix, which can be used to add more liquid to the soup when reheating if you would like to thin it out. You can also warm it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1-minute increments.
What to Serve Chili Made with Bloody Mary Mix
This Bloody Mary Chili is bold, zesty, and packed with flavor, so you’ll want the perfect sides to go with it!
A warm slice of cornbread (whether classic, sweet, or jalapeño-cheddar) is always a great choice. If you’re in the mood for something extra cozy, pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich—that crispy, buttery bread, and melty cheese are a match made in heaven with chili.
Want to turn this into a hearty meal filling meal? Spoon it over a baked potato for a fun twist! Serve Over it over ice or pasta! This is a family favorite! And if you’re anything like me, you can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread for dipping.
For something truly indulgent, try mixing it with mac & cheese—trust me, it’s amazing! You can even get creative and serve it over eggs, a breakfast casserole, or grits for a flavorful breakfast. No matter how you serve it, this chili is sure to be a hit!
Chili Topping Ideas
- Cheese – Shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or even crumbled queso fresco
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – Adds a creamy, cooling contrast
- Chopped Fresh Herbs – Cilantro, green onions, or diced white onions
- Crunchy Toppings – Crushed tortilla chips, crispy bacon, or fried onions, croutons, or toast rounds for dipping!
- Spicy Additions – Sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne
- Fresh Citrus – A squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten up the flavors
- Avocado or Guacamole – Adds creaminess and a little extra richness
- Pickled Jalapeños or Red Onions – A tangy, spicy kick!
Other Delicious Chili Recipes
Hungry for more easy, home-cooked, delicious recipes?
Sign up for my free recipe club to get family-friendly recipes in your inbox each week! Find me sharing daily meal-time inspiration on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram.
Bloody Mary Chili Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt, to season beef while cooking
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic, 3 cloves
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste, I use the squeeze tube
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 3 cups bloody mary mix, my favorite is Charleston bold and spicy
- ¼ cup vodka, optional
- 15 ounce can dark kidney beans, do not drain
- 15 ounce can navy or great northern beans, do not drain
- 15 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a large dutch oven, over medium high heat, add ground beef and crumble until cooked through (get nice and brown) and it has some crisp edges.2 Pounds lean ground beef, 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- Add in diced onion and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Then add in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain excess grease away if needed.½ cup diced yellow onion, 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- Add in tomato paste and spices and stir until combined into the ground beef.2 tablespoons tomato paste, 3 tablespoons chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon celery seed, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 2 teaspoons sugar
- Next, pour in Bloody Mary mix, vodka (if using), beans, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until combined.3 cups bloody mary mix, ¼ cup vodka, 15 ounce can dark kidney beans, 15 ounce can navy or great northern beans, 15 ounce can petite diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Cover with a lid and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, or until flavors are combined and delicious.You can also cook in a slow cooker Low Setting: Cook for 6-8 hours or High Setting: Cook for 3-4 hours.
Want to Save this Recipe?
Enter your email below & we’ll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get great new recipes from us every week!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Soulfully Made.
Notes
Storage
Make-Ahead: Chili always tastes better the next day! Cook it fully cool, and store it in the fridge. Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. Reheat: Reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop. This recipe will leave about 1 cup of the Bloody Mary mix, which can be used to add more liquid to the soup when reheating if you would like to thin it out. You can also warm it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1-minute increments.Nutrition Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
©️Soulfully Made
My hubby was skeptical because he doesn’t drink Bloody Marys, but he said it was possibly the best chili he’s ever had.
I LOVE to hear this! Tell your hubby he made my day! I am so glad you enjoyed it!