Beef And Bacon Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring crispy bacon, ground beef, and fresh vegetables, all simmered in a rich tomato base with beans and spices. Perfect for casual gatherings or cozy family dinners, it offers a smoky, tangy taste that appeals to meat lovers and chili enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove to paper towels.
- Pour off drippings, reserving 1 tablespoon in the pan.
- Add ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper to the pan. Cook until meat is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Return cooked bacon to the saucepan.
- Add chopped tomatoes, pinto beans (with liquid), picante sauce, and chili mix to the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a vegetarian option, replace meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. You can also add corn for sweetness or use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste. This chili can be customized like the 'Ground Beef Vegetable Soup' for added veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with 'Impossible Cheese Burger Pie' for a fun dinner spread. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or some tortilla chips for crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Freeze for longer storage, keeping it for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Bacon Chili contains roughly 628 calories, with 20g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1844mg per serving (80% 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?
Yes, 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 or in the microwave before serving.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level of this chili depends on the picante sauce used. If you prefer a milder version, opt for a mild picante sauce and adjust the chili mix according to your taste. You can also add chopped jalapeños for heat if desired.
Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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).