Betty'S Chili Bean Bake
A hearty chili bean bake with seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and melted cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the fat in a large skillet.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until tender and golden brown.
- Add ground beef and brown lightly.
- Add sliced celery, paprika, allspice, condensed tomato soup, drained kidney beans, garlic salt, and chili powder.
- Stir until blended with a 2-tined fork to avoid breaking the beans.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2 quart casserole.
- Sprinkle grated American cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding bell peppers or corn to the mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add jalapeños. Using a mix of beans, like black beans or pinto beans, can add diversity to the flavor and texture. Remember to taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This chili bean bake is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. It also makes a great filling for tacos or burritos if you want to get creative. Browse more American recipes for varied serving ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili bean bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 325°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Chili Bean Bake contains roughly 1144 calories, with 32g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (117% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and iron (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1695mg per serving (74% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili bean bake a day in advance. Simply complete the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans on hand, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas as a substitute. Each type of bean will bring its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preference or what you have available.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of this chili bean bake, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or crumbled tofu for texture. You can also enhance the flavors with additional spices and vegetables to maintain a hearty and satisfying dish.
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).