3 Alarm Chili

Cuisine: Mexican

A hearty, spicy chili with bold flavors from cumin, oregano, and chili peppers, perfect for a comforting meal that suits family gatherings or casual dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. hamburger
  • 12 oz. tomato sauce
  • 1 can water
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1 tsp. red paprika
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 Tbsp. cumin
  • 1/2 Tbsp. oregano
  • 1/2 cup chili pepper
  • 2 cans red beans

Instructions

  1. Add the chopped onion to the cooked hamburger until softened.
  2. Add all remaining ingredients to the pot.
  3. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until flavors have combined and the chili is heated through.
  4. Enjoy.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or other hot peppers to the mix. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat substitute. You can also adjust the seasoning levels to taste, adding more cumin or paprika if desired. This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or can be served over rice for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this 3 Alarm Chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on top. It also pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. For a fun twist, try serving it with Tacos And Black Beans for a Mexican-inspired feast. Enjoy it alongside a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 3 Alarm Chili contains roughly 1265 calories, with 57g protein, 191g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (252% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (252% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2342mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).

1265 kcal 63% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 57.2g 100% DV
Total Fat 59.4g 76% DV
Carbs 190.5g 69% DV
Fiber 70.4g 100% DV
Sugar 13.7g 27% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2341.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 9.6mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 280.7mcg 31% DV
Vitamin C 226.6mg 100% DV
Calcium 2000mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of hamburger?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to hamburger and will work well in this recipe. It may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the onions and other ingredients.

How can I make this chili less spicy?

If you're looking to tone down the heat, reduce the amount of chili peppers or use milder varieties. You can also add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the spiciness. Additionally, serving it with dairy products like sour cream can help mellow the flavors.

What can I serve with this chili?

This chili can be served on its own or accompanied by various sides. Cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips are popular choices. You might also consider pairing it with a fresh salad or some guacamole for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try it with Double Shelled Tacos!

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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