11 Essential Chili Toppings To Transform Your Next Chili Bar

If you’re planning your next chili bar, you’ve come to the right place. Scroll down to find my 11 essential chili toppings, from crowd-pleasers like shredded cheese and sour cream, to niche options like peanut butter and tzatziki. Whether you're hosting a chili party or just want to spice up a weeknight dinner, these ideas will help you serve up bowls your guests won’t stop talking about.

Chili is a really nostalgic one for me. I can remember the palpable anticipation my sister and I used to feel while waiting for my parents to lift the lid on the simmering pot of chili con carne they'd been nurturing since lunchtime. As soon as that spicy and sweet aroma hit our nostrils we knew it was going to be a good night!

What's wonderful about chili (apart from the taste) is that it can be perfect for so many different contexts; I've made chili for weeknight meals, birthdays, winter & summer parties, when I've got leftover ground beef, when I've got leftover vegetables.... you get the message, there aren't many occasions that don't call for some chili.

If you're anything like me, no two chili's are the same. Sometimes I go heavy on beans or veg, other times I focus on making it extra meaty, or trying to make a regionally inspired variation.

But, one thing most chili recipes do have in common is that they can be enhanced with some exciting chili toppings. Because they're not part of the original recipe, and are added after the chili is served, toppings give everyone the ability to create their own souped up version of the dish.

Keep scrolling to uncover my top picks for 11 essential chili toppings; how they work, how to serve them, and how to store leftover chili with toppings. By the end of this blog you'll be ready to build the chili bar of your and your guest's dreams!

Jump to:

• Why Toppings Matter For Chili
• What Are The Best Chili Toppings
• How To Set Up A Chili Toppings Bar
• Healthy And Budget-Friendly Toppings For Chili
• What To Do With Chili Leftovers And How To Store Them
• Make Every Bowl Of Chili Count
• FAQS
• Other Dishes You Might Enjoy
• 11 Essential Chili Toppings To Transform Your Next Chili Bar

Why Toppings Matter For Chili

If you're starting to fall out of love with your usual chili recipe and want to bring back that excitement, toppings are the answer. They can totally transform the texture, temperature, and flavor of your bowl.

Growing up, my go-to combo was always:

• A generous handful of shredded cheese
• A dollop of sour cream
• Jalapeños for a bit of heat
• And a few tortilla chips on the side for crunch

But everyone’s chili is personal — and that’s the beauty of it.

• Prefer milder flavors? Try creamy additions like cheese, avocado, or Greek yogurt.
• Love it hot? Go wild with hot sauce, fresh jalapeños, or spicy salsa.
• Want a more filling meal? Load up on toppings like diced veg, crushed chips, or bacon bits to add nutrients and bulk.

What Are The Best Chili Toppings

Let's get stuck into my 11 essential chili toppings that are going to truly transform your next chili bar. I've put together a pretty diverse list ranging from the classics that chili enthusiasts like myself consider absolute must-haves, all the way to some wonderfully wacky options. 

Not sure where to start? A small bowl of each of these will never steer you wrong. The best part is they're super accessible and chances are you've already got most of them in your kitchen right now.

1. Shredded Cheese

In my opinion, this is the #1 most essential. Cheese melts into hot chili, creating a creamy tangy texture that contrasts with the rich and hearty base. And, the type of cheese you use will have a huge impact on the flavor profile. If you're a cheese lover, here are my top picks:

• Strong cheddar (adds a strong tangy flavor)
• Monterey Jack (milder and melts smoothly)
• Pepper jack (includes spicy pepper flecks for extra kick)
• Mexican blend (combines multiple different cheese for a well rounded flavor)

Melting tip: I always add cheese while the chili is still hot for it to melt into the dish. But, if you prefer more distinct cheese bites, wait until the chili has cooled slightly before adding.

2. Sour Cream Or Greek Yogurt

Dairy toppings like sour cream and greek yogurt provide a (sometimes very well needed, if my partner is cooking) cooling effect that balances the spicy chili. Has anyone ever told you to drink milk while eating spicy food? Well, it's because the fat in dairy products actually neutralizes 'capsaicin', the compound that makes chili peppers hot, how fun? 

If you're looking for rich and creamy, go with sour cream. But, if extra protein and a tangier taste is what you're craving, then greek yogurt is your best bet. A 2-tablespoon serving of Greek yogurt actually contains about half the calories and three times the protein of the same amount of sour cream. Regardless, both create a pleasant temperature and flavor contrast when generously dolloped on top of hot chili. If this has made you hungry for yogurt, I can't recommend my greek yogurt chicken in air fryer enough, it's such a crowd pleaser!

3. Fresh Herbs And Greens

Although some might consider these "garnishes", they're so important in my recipes that I'd consider them fully fledged toppings in their own right! Fresh herbs like these brighten the deep, savory flavors of chili and add some lovely visual touches. Some of my go-to herb options include:

• Cilantro/Coriander (I adore the citrusy, fresh flavor, even if my partner, Henry, doesn't)
• Green onions/Scallions (provide mild onion flavor and crunch)
• Parsley (for a clean, peppery taste)

4. Salsa And Hot Sauce

Let's get spicyyy! Adding salsa or hot sauce to chili can really draw out the flavor while adding an extra level of heat. Some of my fave's include:

• Pico de gallo (fresh tomato salsa with onions and cilantro)
• Salsa verde (tart green salsa made with tomatillos)
• Hot sauces like Tabasco, Cholula, or Sriracha (Sriracha mayo is also game changer)

Looking for some more salsa inspiration? My fish tacos with manga salsa are a real crowd pleaser. My speedy ground pork tacos recipes also include a delicious mango, lime and chili salsa too.

5. Crunchy Tortilla Chips Or Corn Chips

As I mentioned earlier, tortilla chips were one of my favorite chili sides growing up. Tortillas add that ultra satisfying crunch to contrast with the soft texture of chili and can be served in several ways:

• Crushed and sprinkled on top
• Served whole alongside for dipping
• Layered on the bottom of the bowl as a base (this will make them go a bit soggy if that’s your vibe) 

6. Chopped Onions And Jalapeños

I love to add raw red onions on top of my chili for a sharp kick and crunch. Jalapeños also contribute a lovely warm heat and a bit of freshness, to balance out the richness of the chili. Here are some prep tips to help you get the right balance:

• To reduce the onion’s sharpness, soak chopped raw onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain before using.
• To control your jalapeño heat try and remove the seeds and white membrane to reduce spiciness while keeping the pepper flavor.

You can serve both raw, especially if you want maximum punch. Pickled is also a really good option if you want a tangy, less intense and more mild flavor. And… adding a splash of the pickle juice to a dressing can really bring it to life. 

7. Sliced Avocado Or Guacamole

Avocados are a lovely addition to a chili. They add a creamy richness that balances spicy flavors. The buttery texture makes it especially good with extra spicy chili.

I often make my own homemade guacamole by mashing avocado with lime juice, salt, and cilantro (and occasionally some raw red onion). This adds more flavor complexity than plain avocado while maintaining its refreshing properties.

Avocados are also nutrient-dense, containing healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins which make them one of the more nutritious and healthy chili toppings. Now, if all this talk of avocados has your mouth watering for some recipes that are heavy on our little green friends then look no further. My best avocado pesto is one of my favorite green pasta sauces to make. It's so creamy and only takes 5 mins! Or, why not give my easy salmon and avocado rice bowl a go?

8. Pickles And Pickled Peppers

If you're anything like me you'll always have one (or a few half finished...) jar of pickles chilling at the back of the fridge. I find the acidity in pickled foods like dill pickles or gherkins really cuts through the richness of chili and adds a big bright burst of tangy flavor that fresh veg can't provide. Some of my preferred pickled chili toppings include:

• Dill pickles or gherkins (tangy and herbaceous)
• Bread and butter pickles (sweet and tangy)
• Pickled jalapeños (spicy and vinegary)
• Banana peppers (mild and tangy)

9. Bacon Bits Or Vegan Bacon Alternatives

Now this isn't one that I do very often, but sometimes when I'm craving an additional smoky and salty flavor I'll add bacon bits (or lardons), to add an extra layer of smoky, salty, depth to my chilis. There are a few ways I like to serve these:

• Cooked until crispy, then crumbled
• Cut into small pieces before cooking
• Purchased as pre-made bacon bits (or lardons)

If you don't eat pork there are lots of alternatives. You could try turkey bacon, plant-based bacon made from soy or tempeh, or even coconut bacon (made from coconut flakes seasoned with liquid smoke).

10. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter might not make everyone's list of 11 essential chili toppings to transform your next chili bar, but it certainly has a place on mine. It’s a really great addition to lots of my cooking, and can be added to ramens and curries. 1-2 teaspoons of peanut butter stirred into each bowl can add stunning creaminess and nutty flavor to chili, without needing cream or cheese. Give it a go in your nest chili bar, you might even be surprised! And... once you're done enjoying your chili, why not continue spreading the peanutty love by whipping up my spicy peanut butter noodles?

11. Tzatziki (Greek yogurt sauce with cucumber)

Adding tzatziki is another of my party tricks. My real love for tzatziki (and Greek food in general) blossomed when my partner and I travelled around the Ionian islands years ago. I know it's not traditional, but a dollop of tzatziki on your next bowl of chili really is next-level. The cool cucumber and garlicky yogurt are perfect for taming the heat of a spicy chili while also adding a refreshing crunch. I actually stumbled on this after making a big batch of chili the same week we had leftover tzatziki from a Greek night… and now it’s a regular topping in our house. Speaking of Greek food... If you'd like to have a go at making some yourself, then my greek chicken gyros recipe is a simply delicious and simple way to get started.

How To Set Up A Chili Toppings Bar

A chili bar is my absolute favorite way to serve up a big batch! Just recently we had some friends over for a movie night and I set one up in our dining room. Everyone got to pile their bowls high with whatever they loved; cheese mountains, crunchy onions, tortilla chips, a spoonful of peanut butter. It's as if I created 8 meals in 1! (and it's way easier to keep everyone happy if you have some picky grazers in your party). So here are my top tips on how to set up a chili bar to become the main event at your next gathering!

1. Must-have Simple Toppings For Chili Bars

As a perfect place to start if you're new to hosting chili bars, you'll want to include these essential categories:

• Dairy options: Shredded cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt, (tzatziki)
• Crunchy elements: Tortilla chips, corn chips, crackers
• Fresh items: Diced onions, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, tomato
• Extras: Avocado, lime wedges, hot sauce varieties

For planning purposes, I'd recommend estimating these amounts per person:

• 2 ounces of cheese
• 1 ounce of sour cream or yogurt
• ¼ cup of chips
• 3-4 tablespoons each of fresh toppings

2. Self-Serve Tips And Presentation Ideas

This might be overkill, but I like to organize toppings logically to help guests navigate options. I'll do my best to arrange them like so:

• From mild to spicy
• By category (dairy, crunchy, fresh)
• In order of popularity

I also use small bowls, ramekins, or mason jars to hold individual toppings. Provide serving spoons or tongs for each item.

3. Combining Chili Condiments And Sides

To add the finishing touches to my chili bars I like to add some nice sides and condiments:

• Hearty sides: Cornbread, baked potatoes, rice (of course)
• Lighter sides: Green salad, coleslaw
• Beverages: Iced tea, lemonade, beer
• Additional condiments: Ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce

Healthy And Budget-Friendly Toppings For Chili

If you're anything like me, sometimes you're looking for all the yumminess of chili, but a tad healthier and you don't want to rush to the shops. Well you're in luck, because chili toppings can be both nutritious and affordable too! So, below I've provided some options to satisfy health-conscious recipes and those watching their food budget.

1. Low-Fat Dairy And Yogurt Substitutes

Why not swap out traditional dairy toppings with some lighter alternatives:

• Plain Greek yogurt has more protein and less fat than sour cream
• Low-fat cottage cheese offers protein and calcium
• Plant-based options like coconut yogurt or cashew cream work for dairy-free diets

2. Fresh Vegetables And Herbs

Inexpensive fresh produce adds nutrition and flavor to chili:

• Shredded cabbage provides crunch and vitamin C
• Grated carrots add natural sweetness and color
• Diced bell peppers contribute vitamin A and texture

These little super veggies cost less than many pre-packaged toppings and add lots of nutritional value.

What To Do With Chili Leftovers And How To Store Them

Chili is a brilliant batch cooking recipe and I'll often make a huge vat of the wonderful stuff every time I make it. As long as you store it properly, you'll always have a bowl of comfort ready to go for those "I cannot be bothered to cook" kind of nights. Here's how I get the most out of each vat.

1. Methods To Freeze And Reheat

For safe storage and to maximise flavor:

• Cool chili quickly after cooking (within 2 hours)
• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Freeze for longer storage (up to 3 months)
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave at 50% power (Lower power gently warms the chili without drying it out or turning it to mush)

Em's top tip: Portion chili into single-serving containers before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need. Store toppings separately from the chili itself. Fresh toppings like herbs, cheese, and chips will lose their texture if mixed with chili during storage.

2. What To Do With Leftover Chili

You’d think after having chili the night before, you’d be ready for a break. But trust me... leftover chili doesn’t have to mean the same bowl all over again. With a few simple twists, you can turn it into something totally new (and just as delicious). Here are some of my favorite ways to give leftover chili a second life:

• Oven baked potatoes with cheese and green onions
• On tortilla chips as nachos with jalapeños and salsa
• Mixed with macaroni and cheese
• In breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs
• In chili con carne dumplings (of course I've got a dumpling recipe for chili!) as pre-dinner nibbles

Make Every Bowl Of Chili Count

Chili toppings are a fun, creative and delicious way to transform a basic chili into a culinary experience. Experimenting with different topping combinations keeps chili interesting across multiple meals and many chili toppings reflect global culinary traditions. For example, using tzatziki introduces Greek flavors, while kimchi adds Korean influence. Seasonal ingredients make excellent chili toppings and help reduce food waste. Fresh herbs, garden vegetables, or even leftover chips can find new purpose as chili toppings. For more of my global, budget-friendly recipes that transform everyday ingredients, check out all of my recipes.

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