The Best Game Day Chili Ever — Made with Bison & Fall Squash
When it’s Game Day Sunday, there’s nothing better than a big pot of chili simmering on the stove. The kind that fills your kitchen with that cozy, savory aroma that just feels like fall. 🍂
This year, I wanted to elevate my usual recipe. Something a little leaner, richer, and more flavorful than traditional beef chili. So I went for bison (also known as buffalo) ground meat an I think this might just be the best chili I’ve ever made!
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Why Bison Makes This Chili So Good
If you’ve never cooked with bison before, you’re in for a treat. It’s naturally leaner than beef, but still has that bold, meaty flavor we all love. It gives the chili a rich taste without feeling heavy. Perfect for those cozy fall Sundays when you want comfort food but still want to feel good afterward. I usually buy it at my local Costco.
Bison is also packed with protein, iron, and omega-3s, and lower in cholesterol making it a healthier swap for regular beef that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
🎃 The Secret Ingredient: Fall Yellow Squash
Now here’s where things get fun. I added yellow squash, which is in season right now and adds a little sweetness and texture that balances the spice of the chili perfectly. It’s the little twist that takes this from “regular chili” to elevated fall comfort food.
You can also toss in zucchini, sweet potato, or even pumpkin puree for even more of a fall season feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need for this Buffalo Chili
(this recipe makes about 6 bowls) you can double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd.
- 1 lb ground bison (or buffalo)
- 1 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans (drained)
- 1 can of chili beans (drained)
- 2 cups of water or beef broth
- 1 dash of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 dash of corn starch for thickening
- 1 packet of chili seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a dash of cinnamon
👩🍳 How to Make Buffalo Chili
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the bison with a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and chili seasoning packet.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Toss in the yellow squash and bell pepper. Stir for 2–3 minutes to let it caramelize slightly.
- Add the can of tomatoes, beans, and Worcestershire sauce, then stir in water or beef broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add a dash of corn starch for thickening if desired.
Serve It Up
Serve with your favorite toppings! My favorites are shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, lime or even a drizzle of hot honey if you like a little sweetness with your spice. Pair it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for the ultimate Sunday funday meal.
🍁 Why You’ll Love The Best Game Day Chili Ever — Made with Bison & Fall Squash
This chili is cozy, hearty, and full of fall flavor. The bison gives it that rich game-day edge, while the yellow squash keeps it fresh and seasonal. Whether you’re hosting a watch party or just want something warm for Sunday dinner, this Bison Chili with Fall Squash is the recipe to save and make again and again.
Thanks for reading, The Best Game Day Chili Ever — Made with Bison & Fall Squash. You will also love my black eyed pea soup recipe here.
Leave a comment if you make it!
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