This Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, game days, or cozy nights, this easy homemade chili pairs wonderfully with warm, sweet cinnamon rolls. The combination of savory chili spaghetti and sweet rolls creates a unique dining experience that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chili
- For Garnish
- How to Make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Step 3: Spice It Up
- Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
- Step 5: Simmer the Chili
- Step 6: Serve with Garnish
- How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Classic Garnishes
- Complementary Beverages
- Creative Serving Styles
- How to Perfect Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Best Side Dishes for Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Reheating Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
- What are some variations of Hillbilly Chili?
- How do I serve Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls?
- Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
- Flavorful and Filling: The blend of spices, ground beef, and pasta makes for a rich and satisfying dish that warms the soul.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with classic midwestern cinnamon rolls for a unique twist or enjoy it on its own.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting recipe, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Leftover Friendly: This chili keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying again later.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious chili.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking large batches of chili evenly without spilling.
- Chef’s knife: A versatile tool for dicing onions and chopping ingredients quickly.
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 (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
For Garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Corn chips
- Sour cream

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 and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the beef is browned:
1. Add the diced onion to the pot.
2. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Stir in:
1. The mild chili powder,
2. Kosher salt,
3. Pepper,
4. Granulated sugar.
Mix everything well to coat the meat and onions with spices.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Next, add:
1. The undrained chili beans,
2. Tomato juice,
3. Broken pasta.
Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil:
1. Once boiling, reduce heat to low.
2. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Step 6: Serve with Garnish
Ladle into bowls:
1. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Hillbilly Chili paired with warm cinnamon rolls!
How to Serve Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Serving Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls creates a delightful combination that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. This classic dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Classic Garnishes
- Shredded Cheddar: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to your chili.
- Sour Cream: Provides a cool contrast to the spicy chili, enhancing every bite.
- Corn Chips: Use them for crunch; they also make a great scoop for the chili.
Complementary Beverages
- Sweet Tea: A sweet, refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with this savory dish.
- Lemonade: The tartness balances well with the hearty flavors of the chili.
Creative Serving Styles
- Chili Over Spaghetti: For an authentic twist, serve the chili over spaghetti or angel hair pasta.
- Side of Cinnamon Rolls: Offer warm cinnamon rolls on the side for a sweet finish after each bowl of chili.
How to Perfect Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
To make your Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Meat: Opt for ground round or sirloin for a leaner and richer flavor in your chili.
- Balance Spices: Adjust the mild chili powder to your taste; you can add more for extra kick.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances its flavors; consider cooking it low and slow.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added color and taste.
- Experiment with Pasta: While spaghetti is classic, try using different pasta shapes to mix things up.
- Serve Hot: Ensure both the chili and cinnamon rolls are served hot for maximum enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
Complement your delicious Hillbilly Chili with these tasty side dishes. Each option enhances the meal without overpowering it.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread contrasts nicely with chili’s heat; serve it warm with butter.
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and lightness, balancing the heartiness of the meal.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes can be topped with leftover chili for a filling option.
- Coleslaw: The creamy texture provides a refreshing side that cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks are perfect for dipping into leftover chili sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add nutrition and color to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls, there are a few common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough chili powder can lead to bland chili. Ensure you measure appropriately to enhance the flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta too early, it may become mushy. Cook it just until al dente for the best texture.
- Ignoring the sugar: Omitting sugar can make your chili overly acidic. Even a tablespoon can balance flavors beautifully.
- Not letting it simmer: Rushing the cooking time might result in underdeveloped flavors. Allowing it to simmer enriches the taste and texture.
- Forgetting garnishes: Skipping toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream can make your chili less appealing. Add these for extra flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Make sure to let the chili cool completely before sealing it.
Freezing Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers 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), place the chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare both components ahead of time. Just store them separately and reheat when ready to serve.
What are some variations of Hillbilly Chili?
You can add beans, corn, or different types of meat like turkey or sausage for variety. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!
How do I serve Hillbilly Chili with Cinnamon Rolls?
Traditionally, serve a generous scoop of chili alongside warm cinnamon rolls. The sweetness of the rolls complements the savory chili perfectly.
Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any short pasta you prefer, such as elbow macaroni or penne.
Final Thoughts
Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a comforting dish that embodies warmth and nostalgia. This recipe is not only easy but also versatile; you can adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try different garnishes or side dishes. Enjoy creating your perfect bowl!
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Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Hillbilly Chili and Cinnamon Rolls is a heartwarming dish that perfectly marries savory and sweet flavors, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, game days, or cozy nights at home. This easy-to-make chili features ground beef, spices, and pasta simmered to perfection, while the warm cinnamon rolls add a delightful sweetness that complements the dish beautifully. In just 20 minutes of prep time, you can create a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (round or sirloin)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1–2 tbsp mild chili powder
- 4 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta, broken into thirds
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (46 oz) tomato juice
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Corn chips (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until soft.
- Stir in chili powder, salt, pepper, and sugar; mix well.
- Add chili beans, tomato juice, and broken pasta; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, and sour cream as desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg