Aunt Penny'S Chili
A hearty, comforting chili featuring ground beef, beans, and smoky flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings needing a flavorful, easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and green pepper in a skillet until softened and browned.
- Add pork and beans, tomato ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes.
- Add a little water if the mixture becomes too dry during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of ground cumin or chili powder to the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute. You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of tomato ketchup, or even use a barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Penny's Chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like Meat Loaf Topped With Piquant Sauce, making it a great choice for a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Penny'S Chili contains roughly 613 calories, with 9g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 638mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What can I add to make the chili spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can also add a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the beans for an extra kick.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook the beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours for a delicious and easy 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).