5 Hacks to Make Your Next Chili Bar Memorable
Hosting a get together and need an easy main dish? What about a chili bar? Our group of friends does a once a month themed potluck. One of our favorites has been the chili bar.
We’ve found a chili bar is a hit with the host, their guests, and the kids. That is a mega win, in my book.
A chili bar is great because it has a lot of variety and the chili bar doesn’t create a lot of work for the host.
Chili Bar Prep Work
1. Planning
When setting up for a chili bar -see if there are any dietary restrictions. Chili is great because it can be made to suit many dietary needs- which is something I love about it!
Secondly will you be making any cornbread or another delicious carb to serve with your chili?
Here are three corn breads that make for an amazing chili compliment.
2. Make Ahead
Chili is one of those dishes that gets better with time. Make chili a day before your party then transfer it to your slow cooker on the day of.
As a bonus making it ahead of time frees up more time and creates less stress on the day of the party. Something I know I could always use more of.
3. Assignments & Chili Toppings
If you are hosting- and making chili- assigning toppings, drinks, and dessert to your guest will cut down on all you have to do and make them feel included.
Toppings are what make the chili bar and, personally, they are my favorite part.
Here is a list of some of toppings that are sure to be a hit at the chili bar:
- Fritos / Corn Chips
- Tortilla Chips
- Cheese
- Jalapenos
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Scallions
- Raw onion
- Cilantro
- Avocado
- Corn
- Green peppers
- Red peppers
- Diced fresh tomatoes
- Hot sauce
More of Interest:
4. Organized Assembly
Organize your chili bar to keep the assembly line running smoothly.
For ease of use: Bowls, at the front of the line next Chili crockpot followed by your collection of toppings, finish off the line with napkins and spoons.
This helps everyone gets everything they need all at once and keeps the line running smoothly.
5. BYOB
Make your chili bar hosting duties even easier by making it a BYOB. That doesn’t have to just mean beer or wine, in our group BYOB extends to juice boxes and sodas too.
I’ve found guests are more than happy to pitch in.
And Lastly
Sit back and enjoy!
What are your favorite type of potluck bars?
Chili Bar Necessities:
