Bush'S Best All-American Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, beans, and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings with a rich, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pan, cook ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess grease from the pan.
- Stir in remaining ingredients except cheese.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh ones. To thicken the chili, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes or add a spoonful of cornstarch mixed with water. This recipe is a great way to use leftover ground beef from other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Topping it with additional cheddar cheese, diced onions, or jalapeños can enhance the flavor. It pairs beautifully with Sandy Duncan'S Grandma Darlin' Stew for a comforting meal, or you can enjoy it with tortilla chips for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bush'S Best All-American Chili contains roughly 26 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 541mg per serving (24% 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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a combination of diced mushrooms and lentils or additional beans. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
How can I adjust the spiciness of this chili?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit any additional hot sauce. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. Adjust the spices to your taste during cooking for the best results.
What kind of beans can I use in this chili?
While this recipe calls for chili beans, you can substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even kidney beans based on your preference. Mixing different types of beans can add variety and enhance the texture of the chili.
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).