Honoring Mickey’s Legacy: The Story Behind Mickey’s Famous Chili
For over 30 years, Mickey’s Famous Chili has warmed the hearts and bellies of Michiganders. Many of you may fondly recall stopping by his booth at arts and crafts shows around the state, where he would share samples of this rich, savory chili while selling his hand-crafted seasonings. Mickey wasn’t just selling spices; he was sharing a passion for bold flavors, homemade comfort, and seasonings crafted with care.
Mickey & T’s Spices and Rubs was ahead of its time, focusing on low-sodium and no-salt seasoning blends. Mickey believed in creating bold, flavorful options without relying heavily on salt, making his spices a favorite for those looking to enjoy great taste while maintaining a healthier lifestyle. His innovative approach attracted a loyal following who trusted his seasonings to bring life to their favorite dishes.
The chili recipe featured here was one of Mickey’s most iconic creations, developed decades ago and perfected with his signature Pork Rub—a no-salt blend that exemplified his commitment to flavor without compromise. Many of you might remember savoring this chili as a sample while chatting with Mickey at his booth. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the connections he fostered and the memories he created with every bowl.
When Smash Seasonings acquired “Mickey & T’s Spices and Rubs” after Mickey’s passing in 2021, we made it our mission to honor his vision and craftsmanship. Keeping his recipes alive and continuing to offer low-sodium, high-flavor options is our way of ensuring Mickey’s legacy lives on.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Mickey’s seasonings or discovering them for the first time, this chili is the perfect introduction. Pair it with a cozy evening, a group of friends, or your next family gathering, and you’ll see why this recipe has stood the test of time.
At Smash Seasonings, we’re proud to carry on Mickey’s mission of bringing healthier, flavorful options to kitchens everywhere. His famous chili recipe, featuring our Pork Rub, is a testament to his dedication to quality, health-conscious flavor, and the joy of sharing good food with good people.
Check out the recipe below to bring a piece of Mickey’s kitchen into yours. We hope you enjoy it as much as we’ve enjoyed being part of this flavorful journey.
Mickey's Famous Chili
Equipment
- 1 Sauté Pan
- 1 Stock Pot
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Smash Seasonings Pork Rub
- 2 lbs Ground Beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans Dark Red Kidney Beans, Drained
- 3 cans Petite Diced Tomatoes
- 3 cans Tomato Juice Used to thin out the chili
Instructions
- Empty drained kidney beans and diced tomatoes into a pot on medium heat.
- Add 2 tbsp oil to a sauté pan on high heat and sauté onions until they are translucent but don't over cook. Add ground beef and 2 tbsp of the pork rub to the sauté pan and cook until browned. Add to pot once the meat is browned.
- Add 1 tbsp pork rub to the pot. Add tomato juice until it comes level with the mixture. Stir well then let simmer covered over low-med heat.
- Simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.
