Chili is a time-tested favorite in American households from coast to coast. Ingredients can include beans or no beans, savory ground beef or flavorful chunks of chuck, fiery hot spices or the light touch of cocoa powder — the possibilities and flavor combinations are truly endless.

Standard fare at community events, potlucks and fund raisers the country over, chili originated in Texas, most likely from beef-loving ranchers. Today, countless county and state fairs hold chili competitions for a chance to win the blue ribbon prize. There's even a Chili Appreciation Society International that sanctions hundreds of chili cook-offs every year. These chili fanatics worldwide are proud to own the nickname "chilihead!"

Another favorite for generations, shepherd's pie, evokes all of the warmth and comfort of a shared family meal.

Shepherd's pie was originally created as an economical way to use leftovers from the Sunday dinners. The one-dish meal is the perfect hot meal to savor on cool nights.

Today, convenient, precooked meat and potatoes make this dish as easy to make as it is satisfying.