You know what I love even more than a steaming bowl of chili? All. The. Toppings. Sure, a naked bowl of chili is fine if you’re into that sort of thing. But why stop there when you can transform that simple bowl of comfort into an absolute flavor party? From cool and creamy to satisfyingly crunchy, I’m about to share my ultimate guide to chili toppings that will have you customizing your bowl like the chili champion you were born to be.
Whether you’re simmering a pot of chili for a cozy night at home or setting up a chili bar for a crowd, the right toppings let everyone customize their bowl of chili as desired. You can keep things classic with shredded cheese and sour cream (substituting dairy-free options as needed), or go bold with jalapeño slices and smoked paprika. With so many topping options, you can add endless variety to a single pot of chili — perfect for a bowl of classic red chili, white chicken chili, or even vegetarian versions.
Below, I’ve gathered some of the best toppings for chili to help you build your ultimate bowl. From creamy and savory to spicy and crunchy, these toppings let you take your chili from good to unforgettable.
The information provided on this site is based on my personal experience living with alpha-gal syndrome. I consistently cite and link to expert sources, but nothing published on this site should be perceived as medical advice.
Alpha-gal sensitivities vary by person. You should understand your dietary restrictions, making any adjustments needed, and directing any questions to your physician.
In This Article
Making Alpha-Gal Friendly Chili
Before alpha-gal syndrome decided to crash into my life like an uninvited dinner guest, I was that person who thought that beef was the only way to make ‘real’ chili. If you’re like me, and I know I am, there’s a good chance you packed your go-to chili recipe from back in the day with ingredients you wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot ladle after getting diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome. I’m talking ground beef, spicy sausage, chorizo, beef broth, and maybe even a little bacon sprinkled on top for good measure.
As it turns out, it’s easy to transform your favorite chili into an alpha-gal friendly option without sacrificing any hearty, comforting goodness. These days, my chili game is stronger than ever — just with significantly less chance of an allergic reaction. Win-win, right?
Here are some substitutions I’ve made over the years. Whether you’re craving the richness of a traditional chili or trying something new, there’s an option to keep it alpha-gal friendly.
- Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey or ground chicken. Personally, I’m a big fan of ground chicken because it doesn’t have that gamey aftertaste like turkey does.
- Instead of pork sausage, opt for bulk chicken sausage. The Sprouts Farmer’s Market near me has both sweet Italian and spicy chicken sausage that even the non-alpha gals in my life like better than pork sausage!
- Instead of chorizo, substitute “soyrizo,” a plant-based alternative made with soybeans. Or use seitan chorizo, a plant-based meat substitute made from wheat gluten.
- Instead of beef broth, use chicken stock or vegetable broth. Either way, it’s better than plain water when it comes to creating a hearty pot of chili.
Whether you choose an alpha-gal friendly animal protein or decide to make vegetarian chili, load it up with a variety of beans. Pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans work wonders, adding texture and protein to your bowl while keeping things flavorful and safe for alpha-gal eaters. And if you’re making my easy white chicken chili recipe, white beans add an extra layer of creaminess.
How to Set Up a Chili Bar
A chili bar is a great option for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal, especially in the colder months. Whether you’re hosting a game night or feeding a hungry soccer team, setting up the ultimate chili bar lets everyone customize their bowl. Start by setting out a couple of slow cookers filled with different chili varieties — classic red (made with alpha-gal friendly meats, of course), a white chili, and maybe a vegetarian option if you’re expecting plant-based eaters. Then, add some fun bases to keep things interesting! I love serving baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, and even crispy tater tots as alternative “chili boats.”
Of course, no chili bar is complete without a variety of toppings, so grab a soup spoon and dig into the list below. Set up toppings in small bowls with labels to keep things organized, and use slow cookers to keep everything at the right temperature. You should keep cold toppings like sour cream or cheese in a chilled bowl. And to avoid the risk of foodborne illness, don’t let your toppings sit out for more than two hours.
Chili 2.0: What to Do with Leftovers
I don’t know about you, but chili is one of those meals that always seems to be better as leftovers. Maybe it’s magic, or maybe it’s that the flavors have had time to get to know each other better than book club members three glasses of wine into discussing a novel that nobody actually read.
With a bit of creativity, you can turn a big pot of chili into several new meals. Just let the chili cool, then store it in single-serving containers. It will keep in your fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to six months. Next time you’re craving a quick meal, reheat and eat as a soup or use the leftover chili as the base for something different, like chili mac or loaded chili nachos.
Chili Toppings
A good pot of chili is delicious on its own, but the toppings? They really make the dish! Whether you like yours classic and cheesy or piled high with fresh veggies, a variety of toppings can take a bowl of chili from basic to beyond amazing. Below are some of the best toppings for chili. From crunchy to creamy and everything in between, these toppings let you build your perfect bowl.
Cheeses
For my fellow alpha-gals who can still do dairy, here’s the cheese lineup of your dreams. And for the alpha gals who’ve had to break up with dairy, don’t worry! Keep reading for plant-based alternatives that actually taste like food, not sadness.
Sage Advice: Even if you’re an alpha-gal who tolerates dairy, I recommend avoiding animal rennet. Here’s how to identify vegetarian cheese made with mammal-free alternatives.
- Shredded cheddar: Sharp or mild, cheddar melts beautifully and adds classic chili flavor.
- Monterey Jack: A mild, creamy option that blends well with spicy flavors.
- Colby Jack: Slightly tangy and great for adding a rich meltiness to your chili.
- Pepper Jack: Adds a little spice with bits of pepper in every bite.
- Queso fresco: A crumbly, mild Mexican cheese that pairs perfectly with a spicy bowl of chili.
- Blue cheese crumbles: For a bold twist, blue cheese adds a creamy and slightly sharp flavor.
- Parmesan shavings: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements tomato-based chilis.
- Cotija: This Mexican cheese is crumbly with a salty bite, ideal for a Southwestern twist.
- Smoked Gouda: Adds a rich, smoky taste that goes well with BBQ-inspired chilis.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Mild and creamy, mozzarella balances bolder flavors.
Sage Advice: One of my favorite dairy-free cheese brands is Violife. They have plant based alternatives for cheddar cheese, Mozzarella, and Colby Jack. They also sell a Mexican blend that is delicious in chili.
Creamy Toppings
Creamy toppings help mellow the spices in chili and add a cool contrast to the heat. Whether you go with dairy or a plant-based alternative, these options add a smooth, rich texture to each bite.
- Sour cream: The classic cool-down topper that balances heat and adds a touch of tang. Need a dairy-free option? I recommend Kite Hill or Violife.
- Greek yogurt: A healthier, tangy alternative that’s thick, creamy, and high in protein. Need a dairy free version? I recommend Kite Hill.
- Heavy whipping cream: For a rich texture when stirred in or to balance the heat of chili spices. One of my favorite plant-based options is Silk Dairy-Free Heavy Whipping Cream.
- Whipped cream cheese: Super creamy with a tang that brings a nice contrast to chili. If you need a dairy-free option, try Kite Hill.
- Crema Mexicana: A thinner, tangier sour cream that adds authentic Mexican flavor.
- Coconut milk or coconut cream: This vegan-friendly choice adds a touch of sweetness to any dish.
- Fried egg: Adding an over-easy egg to your chili brings a rich, creamy layer when the yolk breaks.
Salsas, Sauces, and More
Whether you’re looking to add a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds or just want to make your bowl Instagram-worthy, these saucy additions are about to become your new best friends. From smoky chipotle to tangy salsa verde, these condiments can add layers of flavor with just a spoonful.
- Lime: A squirt of fresh lime juice from a lime wedge adds bright acidity that brings out the flavors in your chili.
- Pico de gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Avocado crema: Smooth, rich, and a nice alternative to sour cream.
- Salsa verde: Tangy, tomatillo-based salsa that’s slightly tart and bright.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness that cools down the heat in every bite.
- Chipotle sauce: Smoky, spicy, and perfect for a southwestern kick.
- Hot sauce: From mild to fiery, add a dash to adjust the spice level.
- Chimichurri: Herbaceous and garlicky for a unique twist.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy, cool, and tangy for a Midwest-style flavor. Need a dairy-free option? Try Follow Your Heart.
- Buffalo sauce: For a tangy kick with a touch of heat. Primal Kitchen makes a great dairy-free option.
- Honey drizzle: A surprising touch of sweetness that balances savory flavors.
Herbs and Greens
You may be thinking, “Who in the heck puts salad on their chili?” Stay with me here! Adding fresh herbs and greens to your chili adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that you’ll love.
- Chopped cilantro: Adds freshness with a citrusy, herbal twist.
- Green onions or scallions: For a mild, fresh onion flavor without overpowering.
- Chives: Delicate, oniony flavor that complements most chili flavors.
- Microgreens: Add freshness and a pop of color for an Instagram-worthy bowl.
- Parsley: Mildly herbal, adding freshness and color.
- Arugula: For peppery bite and a bit of crunch.
- Shredded romaine lettuce: Adds a cool crunch that’s a little unexpected in chili but refreshing.
Crunchy Toppings
While I love a good bowl of hearty chili, sometimes it needs a little crunch to take it from “nice” to “OMG, I can’t stop eating this!” Be sure to read the labels on any of the store-bought toppings below to confirm that your choices are alpha-gal friendly.
- Tortilla chips or tortilla strips: Adds crunch and saltiness. I prefer tortilla strips because I think they fit better in a bowl.
- Corn chips: Crunchy, salty, and a great match for cheesy chili.
- Croutons: Garlic or cheesy for extra flavor.
- Fried onions: Crispy and slightly sweet, these bring a fun crunch.
- Chopped bacon: When you use an alpha-gal friendly option like chicken, turkey, or duck bacon, it adds a smoky, salty finish to your chili.
- Crushed Saltine crackers: Classic with a comforting crunch.
- Oyster crackers: Classic comfort food, especially good for thicker chilis.
- Kettle chips: Adds a crunch and unique flavor — great with a smoky chili.
- Crispy chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas add crunch and protein.
Vegetable and Plant-Based Toppings
Not only do these colorful additions make your chili look fancy (hello, food photographer wannabe), but they also add amazing flavors and textures. And for my fellow alpha-gals who’ve gone full plant-based, these toppings are about to become your new BFFs.
- Diced onions: Add a bit of crunch and sweetness. Try white, yellow, or red onions for different flavors.
- Pickled red onions: If you’re not a fan of raw onions, these add a tangy, colorful topping.
- Sliced jalapeños: Fresh or pickled for heat, jalapeno peppers add a little zing. I like to thinly slice jalapeno rings using a mandoline slicer.
- Diced green chiles: Mildly spicy and flavorful, especially good in white chili.
- Diced tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color.
- Bell pepper slices: Colorful and crunchy, adding a fresh bite.
- Avocado slices: Creamy and fresh, a perfect match for spicy chili.
- Roasted corn kernels: Sweet and smoky. I like to cheat by defrosting a bag of Trader Joe’s frozen fire-roasted corn.
- Shredded carrots: Add color and a touch of sweetness to balance out spicy flavors.
- Seitan crumbles: A meat alternative with a savory flavor, great for veggie chili.
- Seared tofu cubes: Vegan-friendly protein option that soaks up flavors well.
- Crispy mushroom stems. Don’t toss mushroom stems! Instead, finely dice them, season them with salt and pepper, then cook them in hot oil until they are crisp and brown, and you have an alpha-gal friendly alternative to bacon bits!
Spices and Seasonings
Whether you’re a heat seeker or just looking to add a little extra oomph to your bowl, these seasonings are the secret weapons of the chili world. After all, sometimes it just takes a simple sprinkle of spice or a dash of seasoning to bring out new dimensions in your chili.
- Chili powder: Enhances the chili flavor with a warming spice.
- Paprika: Sweet or smoky (I am on team “smoky”) it adds a depth of flavor.
- Cayenne pepper: Perfect for those who like a little extra heat.
- Smoked salt: Adds a smoky, salty touch without extra meat.
- Cumin seeds: Earthy flavor that complements chili’s rich base.
- Black pepper: Adds a simple heat and depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder: Intensifies flavor and works in just about any chili.
- Za’atar: A Middle Eastern spice blend for a unique twist.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Adds savory complexity with a hint of crunch.
What are Your Favorite Chili Toppings?
What are your favorite toppings for chili? Do you prefer traditional options like shredded cheese and diced onions, or do you lean toward fresh toppings like chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes? Is there a favorite of yours missing from this list? Share your experiences in the comments section below.
