Aunt Lucy'S Chili

Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, beans, and tomato soup, perfect for casual gatherings and comforting meals for 6 to 8 people.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 cans Ranch Style chili beans
  • 2 cans tomato soup

Instructions

  1. Brown onion, garlic, and ground beef in a skillet.
  2. Drain off grease from the beef mixture.
  3. Add tomato soup, chili beans, and chili seasoning to the skillet.
  4. Cover and simmer the mixture.
  5. Stir occasionally during cooking.
  6. Cook for 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Substituting ground turkey for beef is a great option for a leaner dish. Feel free to experiment with your favorite beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to customize the flavor similar to Bush'S All-American Chili.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Aunt Lucy's Chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture. This chili also pairs beautifully with a side of tortilla chips for dipping. Consider a fresh garden salad or coleslaw as a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chili.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Lucy'S Chili contains roughly 739 calories, with 32g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value) and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1006mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

739 kcal 37% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 32.5g 65% DV
Total Fat 44.4g 57% DV
Carbs 51.2g 19% DV
Fiber 3.2g 11% DV
Sugar 5.3g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1006mg 44% DV
Potassium 547.4mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 88.9mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 29.1mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 74.5mg 6% DV
Iron 6.9mg 38% DV
Diet fit High-protein

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 vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite meat alternative. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To increase the spice level, you can add diced jalapeños, a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the chili. Adjust the heat according to your preference, starting with small amounts and tasting as you go.

What sides go well with chili?

Chili is delicious on its own, but it pairs excellently with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Additionally, a simple green salad or coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chili, making for a well-rounded meal.

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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