Best Ever Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and smoky spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a bold taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onion, green pepper, and celery; simmer slowly.
- Add kidney beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, garlic flakes, and salt.
- Simmer slowly for 1 1/2 hours.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a lean ground beef to prevent excess grease. You can substitute half of the kidney beans with black beans for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips. For a hearty meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or alongside dishes like Gayle's Baked Beans for a comforting spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Chili also freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Chili contains roughly 1134 calories, with 51g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (177% of the Daily Value), iron (106% of the Daily Value), and protein (101% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2253mg per serving (98% 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 a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances the flavors as they meld together over time.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a little beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it well and let it simmer for a few more minutes to incorporate the additional liquid.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped, will work well. Just be aware that fresh tomatoes can alter the consistency, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
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).