Aunt Deb'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual weeknight dinners with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; pour off excess grease.
- Add chopped onions, minced garlic, cumin, and chili pepper to the meat.
- Mix well and cook until onions are softened.
- Add chopped tomatoes, chili beans, kidney beans, and about three cans of water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until flavors meld and chili thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try substituting the meat with lentils or a mix of beans. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili pepper or including diced jalapeños. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This chili is versatile and can be customized to fit your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Deb's Chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also offer toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or avocado for added flavor. For an easy dessert, try a Creamy Fruit Parfait to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Deb'S Chili contains roughly 351 calories, with 21g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (305% of the Daily Value), iron (125% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
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 make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. It's perfect for meal prep or to serve at gatherings.
What can I serve with Aunt Deb's Chili?
Aunt Deb's Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. For a comforting dessert, consider serving slices of Baked Acorn Squash With Apples for a seasonal touch.
Can I freeze the chili?
Yes, you can freeze Aunt Deb's Chili! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).