Bill'S Chili Beans
Bill's Chili Beans is a hearty, comforting dish packed with savory ground beef, tender pinto beans, and rich tomato flavors. Perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings, its slow-simmered profile offers a satisfying blend of spices and a robust, smoky taste that appeals to chili lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck and chopped onions in a skillet.
- Rinse the grease off the beef.
- Add salt, garlic salt, sugar, and pepper to the beef and onions.
- Pour in the tomato soup and diced tomatoes.
- Stir in the pinto beans.
- Cook the mixture over low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin to the spice mix. If you're short on time, you can use canned diced tomatoes with green chiles for added flavor. For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with a meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of tomato soup. Don't hesitate to experiment with different beans such as black beans or kidney beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bill's Chili Beans with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or some homemade Huckleberry Jam on the side for a sweet contrast. Enjoy it during game day gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months, thawing it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bill'S Chili Beans contains roughly 304 calories, with 29g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1701mg 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 chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the beef and onions, transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, slow-cooked version of this chili.
What can I do if the chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Remember, the chili will thicken as it cools, so adjust accordingly before serving.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also use spicy chili powder instead of regular. Adjust the spice level to your preference as you cook, ensuring it complements the other flavors without overwhelming them.
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).