Cajun Chili
A hearty Cajun chili packed with bold spices, ground beef, sausage, and beans, perfect for satisfying a crowd with its rich, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beef, sausage, onion, peppers, and garlic in a large cooker and brown.
- Drain fat.
- Add tomato paste, tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, and salt.
- Cook on medium heat for 1 to 2 hours.
- Serve with lots of cool drink.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you prefer a leaner dish, substitute ground turkey for the beef. Additionally, using canned beans is convenient, but soaking and cooking dried beans can enhance flavor. You can also add vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition, similar to what's found in Garden Barley Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cajun chili hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a heartier meal. A side of simple salad or chips can complement the rich flavors. For a comforting twist, try serving it with a slice of Hamburger Reuben on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cajun chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Chili contains roughly 2047 calories, with 120g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (240% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (233% of the Daily Value), and iron (166% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1330mg per serving (58% 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 Cajun chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the meat and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can be very convenient.
What type of beans can I use in this chili?
While kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure any canned beans are rinsed thoroughly before adding them to the chili.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Cajun chili, replace the ground beef and sausage with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. Adjust the spices to enhance flavors, and include more vegetables for added nutrition.
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).