How to Create the Ultimate Chili Bar

Few things are better than a steaming bowl of chili… except maybe getting to create your own perfect bowl! 

Whether you're hosting game day, planning a tailgate, or just gathering the family for dinner, a DIY chili bar is your ticket to hosting success. Let's break down how to create the ultimate spread that'll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Why a Chili Bar?

Think of it as the taco bar's cozy cousin. A chili bar lets your guests customize their bowls to their hearts' content, accommodates different dietary preferences (from gluten-free to vegan), and makes hosting a breeze. It's the perfect way to keep the party flowing while you actually enjoy the party yourself.

Start with the Perfect Base

Here's where we make your life easier: start with Tad's Dad's Chili as your base. Our chili is ready to go and perfectly spiced, giving you more time to focus on the fun stuff, like watching the game or catching up with friends. For bigger gatherings, grab our party jug.

Deal Opportunities: Make Your Chili Bar Even Better!

🔥 Stock Up & Save – Hosting a big crowd? Grab 4 jugs for just $200 – that’s a $40 savings to keep the chili flowing without breaking the bank!

🚚 Subscribe & Save – Never run out of your favorite chili! Sign up for a subscription delivery every 2, 4 or 6 weeks and enjoy 10% off every order – because life’s better when you always have chili on hand.

The Ultimate Chili Bar Shopping List

Must-Have Toppings

• Shredded cheese (mix it up with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Diced onions (red and white)
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños (fresh and pickled)
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced green onions
• Diced avocado
• Crispy bacon bits

Protein Add-ins

• Browned ground beef
• Crumbled chorizo
• Ground turkey
• Shredded chicken

Crunchy Elements

• Corn chips
• Tortilla strips
• Oyster crackers
• Crumbled cornbread
• Fritos

Extra Credit

• Lime wedges
• Hot sauces (variety is key!)
• Sliced black olives
• Crispy fried onions

Pro Tips for Setting Up Your Bar

1. Temperature Control
• Keep the chili warm in a slow cooker
• Use ice baths under cold toppings
• Set out smaller portions of toppings and refill as needed
  
  
2. Strategic Setup
• Arrange items in logical order: bowls first, then chili, then toppings
• Put spoons in every topping bowl
• Label anything that's spicy
• Consider having a "spicy section" for heat-seekers 
  
  
3. Smart Serving
• Use clear containers so guests can see what's what
• Provide sturdy bowls that can handle hefty servings
• Keep backup supplies ready to go
  
  

Party Planning Math

For a 2-3 hour party, plan on:

• 1 cup of chili per person
• 2–3 tablespoons of each topping per person
• Extra portions for die-hard chili fans (these are our people!)

Note: One party jug of TDC serves about 3–5 people.

Show Us Your Style!

We love seeing how you serve up your chili. Tag us in your chili bar photos on Instagram or Facebook, or share your favorite topping combinations in the comments below. Who knows? Your creative combo might just inspire our next big idea!

The TDC Promise

There you have the ingredient list for a successful party. Stock up on Tad's Dad's Chili (don't forget that party jug for bigger gatherings!) and give yourself the gift of easy, delicious hosting. Your guests will thank you, and you'll actually get to enjoy your own party.

Ready to start planning? Head to our store locator to find TDC near you, or order online for direct delivery to your door. Let's make your next gathering one to remember!

Happy hosting, 

The TDC Crew