The chili burger from Tommy’s Original in Los Angeles is one of the most famous comfort foods in America. The thick, savory, perfectly seasoned chili on top of a juicy burger isn’t just a topping; it’s the best part of the meal. This meaty, smooth, and flavorful sauce is known all over the world as the Tommy Burger Chili Recipe. It makes a regular burger taste amazing.
You know why it’s unforgettable if you’ve ever tried it. If you haven’t, the good news is that you don’t have to fly to California to enjoy it. if you want to make a perfect Tommy Burger Chili recipe in your own kitchen, if you use use the right ingredients, cook it right and pay attentions to the details.
In next paragraphs, we’ll talk about its history, that what make it special , the exact ingredients and steps, even some pro tips, and hope your homemade Tommy Burger tastes like the real thing.
The History of Tommy’s Chili: A Bite of History
In 1946, Tommy’s Original World Famous Hamburgers started out as a small stand in Los Angeles. Tommy Koulax, the founder, had a simple goal: to serve big, fresh burgers with toppings that customers couldn’t find anywhere else. That “something” turned out to be chili. It wasn’t the chunky, bean-filled kind that most people were used to; it was a smooth, rich, meaty sauce that stuck to the burger like it was meant to be there all along.
The Angel Food smoothie was created to taste like a treat while still being light and nourishing. It had to be creamy enough to feel indulgent yet smooth enough to sip easily. The blend of strawberries, bananas, milk, and vanilla was carefully balanced so it was sweet but not overpowering. This made every sip refreshing, satisfying, and perfectly enjoyable without being too heavy.
This famous chili became the most popular dish on the menu over the years, making the Tommy Burger Chili Recipe a part of West Coast food history.
What sets this chili recipe apart from all the others?
No Beans: This is a chili for meat lovers that is all about the beef and spices.
The beef is cooked until it is very fine and the sauce is thickened just right, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
Balanced seasoning that is dulcet with hints of tang and smoke, but not to hot.
Consistency that goes well with burgers: made to enhance the burger’s flavor rather than cover it up.
Quick Cooking Time: It only takes 40 minutes to make, so it’s great for weeknight cravings.
What you’ll need
Get all your ingredients ready before you start. Freshness is important here, so look for the best items you can find.
The main ingredients
1 pound of ground beef (80/20 blend) adds richness because of the fat.
2 cups of beef broth add flavor and keep the chili moist.
1 cup of tomato sauce adds acidity and balance.
2 tablespoons of tomato paste—this makes the tomato flavor stronger.
Spices
2 tablespoons of chili powder are the main flavor.
1 teaspoon of paprika for a hint of smokiness.
1 teaspoon of ground cumin gives a warm, earthy flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder—adds more depth to the savory flavor.
1 tsp onion powder adds a little sweetness and depth.
½ teaspoon black pepper—adds to the spice mix.
1 teaspoon of salt—taste and add more if needed.
Thickener
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to get that thick texture.
Extras that are not required
¼ tsp cayenne pepper for people who like things hot.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce adds a rich umami flavor.
Instructions in Steps
Step 1: Brown the meat
Over medium heat, cook the ground beef in a big skillet or pot until it is completely brown. This step is very important for getting that smooth, real Tommy’s texture. Use a spatula or potato masher to break it up into the smallest pieces possible.
Step 2: Season and Drain
Take out the extra fat, but leave about a tablespoon for flavor. Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for one to two minutes to let the spices bloom and smell good.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Base
Add the tomato paste and stir until the beef is completely covered. After that, add the tomato sauce and mix it well. This gives your chili a strong, tangy base.
Step 4: Add broth and make it thicker.
While stirring, slowly add the beef broth. In a small bowl, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of water until it forms a slurry. Then, add it to the pot. This will make sure that the chili thickens without lumps.
Step 5: Let it simmer until it’s perfect.
Turn it down the heat and let the chili simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring now and then. The sauce gets its signature velvety texture and the flavors blend together better the longer it simmers. Taste and change the seasoning if you need to.
Tips from the pros for making the best Tommy Burger Chili
Grind the meat very finely. The more finely ground the beef, the more real it will taste.
Don’t use too much spice—Tommy’s is known for balance, not too much heat.
Let it sit for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors deepen.
Make more. This freezes well, so you can use it for quick meals later.
Use good beef. A better cut of meat makes chili taste better.
More Than Just Burgers: Ideas for Serving
Your homemade Tommy Burger Chili Recipe can be used in a lot of different ways, but the original chili burger is the best:
Chili cheese fries: Pour over crispy fries, add shredded cheddar, and eat.
Chili Dogs: Put chili and chopped onions on top of a hot dog.
Put chili, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream on top of tortilla chips to make nachos.
Chili Eggs for Breakfast: Put over scrambled or fried eggs.
For loaded baked potatoes, put chili, sour cream, and green onions on top.
How to Store and Reheat
In the fridge, you can keep it for up to four days in an airtight container.
In the Freezer: You can freeze it in meal-sized portions for up to three months.
Add a little beef broth or water to the food when you reheat it to get it back to its original consistency.
Why Should You Make the Tommy Burger Chili Recipe at Home?
There are many benefits to making the Tommy Burger Chili Recipe at home: Saving money: One batch can last for several meals. Customization: Change the amount of spice, salt, and texture to fit your taste. Freshness: No preservatives or additives that aren’t natural. Convenience: You can enjoy the famous chili burger anytime without having to leave your house. And once you learn how to do it, you’ll have a go-to topping that will make everything taste better, from burgers to breakfast.
FAQs
Is there a way to make it hotter?
Yes, just add cayenne, hot sauce, or fresh chili peppers.
Does it taste just like Tommy's?
It looks a lot like it. This version gets the texture and flavor balance just right for most fans, even though the original is a closely guarded secret.
Is it possible to make it in a slow cooker?
Yes. First, brown the meat. Then, put all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours.
Is it just for burgers?
Not at all. It tastes great on breakfast foods, hot dogs, fries, and nachos.
Last Thoughts
Tommy Burger Chili Recipe is more than just a topping; it’s a symbol of the food culture in Los Angeles. For almost 80 years, food lovers have loved it for its smooth texture, deep beefy flavor, and perfect seasoning. You can bring a taste of California into your kitchen whenever you want by following these simple steps. No matter if you stick with the classic chili burger or try chili fries, nachos, or loaded potatoes, you can be sure that every bite will taste like the rich, nostalgic flavor that made Tommy Burger Chili Recipe famous. Get your skillet, spices, and start cooking. The real Tommy Burger experience is just a simmer away, and your taste buds will love it.
