Best Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili packed with tender ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of tomatoes and spices. Perfect for casual dinners or gatherings, this dish offers a comforting mix of smoky, savory, and mildly spicy notes that appeal to chili lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, green peppers, and chopped celery until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat and add kidney beans.
- Stir in cut-up tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add minced garlic, salt, and chili powder if using.
- Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust consistency by stirring in reserved liquid if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cumin or smoked paprika alongside the chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of beans. To enhance heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Feel free to experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider side dishes like a fresh garden salad or serve it alongside Beef And Cabbage Soup for a hearty comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Chili contains roughly 784 calories, with 26g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (435% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1392mg per serving (61% 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 use other types of meat in this chili?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option, or you can use a mix of meats for a more complex flavor. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using leaner meats.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or include fresh chopped chili peppers. You can also mix in hot sauce to taste or incorporate diced green chilies for a flavorful kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Is it necessary to simmer the chili for the full time?
While simmering for 1 to 1 1/2 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, you can simmer for a shorter time if you're in a hurry. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked and the ingredients are heated through 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).