Ball Field Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, pork and beans, and a tangy chili sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add chili sauce, pork and beans, and Chili-O mix to the cooked beef.
- Simmer the mixture for approximately 30 minutes to develop flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili. If you're out of chili sauce, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with spices can work as substitutes. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner option, making this a versatile dish. Don’t forget to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side of tortilla chips. For a complete meal, consider serving with a fresh salad, such as Marinated Steak Salad, to balance the richness of the chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. This chili also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ball Field Chili contains roughly 1168 calories, with 23g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 112g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1265mg per serving (55% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili can be prepared a day ahead, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It's a perfect dish for game day gatherings or potlucks, as it can be made in large batches.
What can I add to make it vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or crumbled tempeh. You can also add more beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to enhance the texture and protein content while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
How can I adjust the thickness of the chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up quickly. For a thinner consistency, simply add a bit of water or broth until the desired thickness is reached.
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).