Forget dry turkey and weird green Jell-O — this November, we spiced things up at work with a staff chili cook-off that brought the heat and the fun, all before Thanksgiving break even started. Honestly? Best idea ever.
If you’re looking to host a cozy, low-maintenance office potluck that isn’t all about cranberry sauce and stuffing, then gather your coworkers, warm up those Crockpots, and get ready to crown your very own Beast of Chili. We had so much fun, and so will you!
How We Cooked Up the Office Chili Cook-Off
The event was held potluck style, and it was the perfect way to kick off fall break with comfort food and coworkers. Here’s how our staff made it happen:
Timing of Our Staff Chili Cook-Off
We scheduled our staff chili cook-off during each staff lunch session one day on the week before Thanksgiving break, and let me tell you — it was such a refreshing change from the usual November food. Everyone was ready for something a little non-turkey-ish (and a lot spicier!).
The Staff Chili Contest Categories
We kept things simple with two chili lanes:
- Traditional Chili (think beef, beans, and tomato-based classics)
- Non-Traditional Chili (hello, white chicken chili, veggie chili, and spicy wildcards)
We didn’t give out awards per category this time (though a few fun certificates would be cute for future rounds!). Instead, we went straight to the top with:
- 🏆 1st Place Overall — Beast of Chili
- 🥈 2nd Place Overall
- 🥉 3rd Place Overall
And yes, the competition was fierce.
The Work Potluck Setup
We used a simple office potluck spreadsheet to let folks sign up for what they wanted to bring:
Fritos, cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, chopped onions, drinks, cups, and those all-important small bowls. No duplicate sides. No stress. Just chili and chili-adjacent goodness.
Each crockpot of chili was assigned an anonymous number, and they were directed to set down their slow cooker on that number when they arrived in the school library (where we often have our staff parties). The numbers were taped down on the tables. Also, there were small papers and pencils laying around so staff could jot down their thoughts as they taste-tested. Think “#3 — smoky with a little heat!” or “#7 — bold and bean-free!”
Here is the note I jotted down while I was taste testing.
People took the contest very seriously. Some even brought their own muffin pans from home so they could sample efficiently.
Then our amazing party coordinators (shoutout to our building literacy and math specialists!) sent out a Google Form via email that same morning. Staff cast their votes for their favorite bowl of chili — and by the end of the day, we had our winners.
Crowning the Beast of Chili
Trophies and certificates were handed out for the top three winners, and the top title was nothing short of legendary: Beast of Chili. It’s a title that will live in infamy… at least until next fall.
I entered my traditional beef and three bean chili, and while it didn’t technically win, I’m convinced it was robbed. Haha! The flavor! The seasoning! The simmered-all-day magic! Clearly, some of y’all need a second helping and a second chance to vote.
Here’s me – briefly holding what should have been my Beast of Chili trophy. Sigh.
Cozy Fall Vibes, Simple Decor
We kept decorations cozy and minimal with a fall theme — think plaid tablecloths, a few pumpkins, and some mini chalkboard signs to label sides. Nothing fancy, but it made everything feel festive and warm.
We even hand a big handmade sign because, you know, we are teachers after all. What teachers wouldn’t make a handmade sign?
And the chili? The chili kept everyone coming back for seconds, thirds, and maybe some discreet fourths. No judgment.
Final Thoughts on a Staff Chili Cook-Off
Our fall chili cook-off was the perfect pre-holiday morale booster — warm bowls, full bellies, and a little friendly competition to bring everyone together. If you’re planning your own version, keep it simple, spice it up, and don’t forget to crown your own Beast of Chili.
And if you are still bitter about your chili being snubbed from the last contest you entered? Join the club. There’s always next year.
Some other fun staff ideas for work include our large group gift game, staff secret pal game, work Christmas party ideas, modern baby showers for work, and work breakfast potluck ideas for work.
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