Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 4 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta; 1 15 oz can chili beans; 1 46 oz can tomato juice; 1-2 Tbs mild chili powder; 1 Tbs granulated sugar; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp pepper; Cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade)

Published: August 23, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef and beans, this chili is sure to satisfy your appetite.
Perfect Pairing: The sweetness of cinnamon rolls complements the savory chili perfectly, creating a unique dining experience.
Versatile Dish: Ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Customizable Recipe: Feel free to adjust spices or toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential kitchen tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the chili evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring the chili without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

This Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is an easy homemade chili spaghetti recipe we suggest serving with classic midwestern cinnamon rolls.

For the Chili

1-2 Tbs. mild chili powder
2 lbs. ground beef, preferably 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. each kosher salt and pepper
Shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream, for garnishing the chili as desired

How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef to the pot.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Once the beef is browned:
1. Add the diced onion to the pot.
2. Stir occasionally until the onions are translucent.

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients:
1. Stir in the mild chili powder, broken pasta, chili beans (with liquid), tomato juice, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil:
1. Reduce heat to low once boiling.
2. Cover and let simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Serve with Cinnamon Rolls

While your chili simmers:
1. Prepare your favorite cinnamon rolls according to package instructions or use homemade ones.
2. Once ready, serve bowls of hot chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and a dollop of sour cream alongside warm cinnamon rolls.

Enjoy this comforting meal that combines two beloved dishes!

How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

This delightful dish pairs the rich flavors of Hillbilly Chili with warm, sweet cinnamon rolls. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance your meal experience.

Garnished Chili

Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of your chili for a creamy finish.
Corn Chips: Add a crunchy texture by serving chili with corn chips on the side or crumbled on top.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices and adds creaminess to each spoonful.

Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Warm Rolls: Serve freshly baked cinnamon rolls warm from the oven for a comforting addition to your meal.
Creamy Icing: Drizzle icing over the rolls for an extra sweet touch that complements the savory chili.

Salad Pairing

Simple Green Salad: A light green salad can provide freshness and balance to the hearty chili and sweet rolls.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

How to Perfect Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Creating the perfect Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls is easier than you might think. Here are some tips for achieving a delicious outcome.

Use Quality Meat: Choose ground beef like ground round or sirloin for better flavor and texture in your chili.
Balance Flavors: Adjust the amount of sugar and salt to suit your taste. This helps in balancing out the acidity from the tomato juice.
Cook Low and Slow: For deeper flavors, let your chili simmer longer. This also helps meld all the spices beautifully.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different garnishes like diced jalapeños or avocado for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Adding side dishes can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options to consider when serving Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls.

Cornbread: A classic pairing, cornbread adds a sweet, crumbly element that complements chili perfectly.
Fried Zucchini: Crispy fried zucchini offers a delightful crunch alongside the soft textures of chili and rolls.
Baked Potatoes: Serving baked potatoes allows guests to customize their toppings, making it a versatile option.
Garlic Bread: This savory bread is perfect for dipping into the rich chili broth.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up chili flavors while adding a healthy twist to your meal.
Pickled Vegetables: These add a tangy bite that contrasts nicely with the richness of both the chili and cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Using the wrong chili powder: Mild chili powder is recommended for this recipe. Using a spicy blend can overwhelm the flavors. Always check the spice level before adding.
Overcooking the noodles: Adding the spaghetti or angel hair pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Cook them just until al dente before mixing into the chili.
Skipping garnishes: Toppings like shredded cheddar, corn chips, and sour cream elevate the dish. Don’t skip these as they add flavor and texture.
Not letting it simmer: Chili benefits from simmering to allow flavors to meld. Avoid rushing this step; let it cook for at least 30 minutes.
Ignoring ingredient quality: The taste of your Hillbilly Chili will greatly depend on fresh ingredients. Always use high-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Cool completely before placing in the fridge to avoid condensation.

Freezing Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use different types of meat in Hillbilly Chili?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is the best way to serve Hillbilly Chili?

Hillbilly Chili is best served hot with warm cinnamon rolls on the side. Add toppings like cheese or sour cream for extra flavor.

Can I make Hillbilly Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better when made a day ahead. Just reheat before serving for optimal flavor.

What makes Hillbilly Chili different from regular chili?

Hillbilly Chili often includes noodles, giving it a unique texture and heartiness that sets it apart from traditional chili recipes.

Final Thoughts

Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls offer a comforting blend of flavors that brings warmth to any table. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or spices. Enjoy this delightful meal with loved ones, making lasting memories around your dinner table!