California Chili
A hearty California Chili featuring savory ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners. Served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or pot.
- Add chopped onion and chopped pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in tomato soup, catsup, and drained kidney beans.
- Simmer the mixture for about 20-30 minutes to develop flavors.
- Cook rice separately according to package instructions.
- Serve the chili over the cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Substituting ground turkey or chicken for beef can lighten the dish while still providing great flavor. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of tomato soup or let it simmer longer. Additionally, using leftover cooked rice from another meal can save time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili over a bed of cooked rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad for a balanced dinner. For an extra touch, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. This dish also works well for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili 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, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it to prevent splatter, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Chili contains roughly 1582 calories, with 83g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (166% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value), and iron (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1806mg per serving (79% 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 use different types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. Just be sure to drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the chili.
Is this chili recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I serve with California Chili?
California Chili is delightful on its own, but consider serving it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, pair it with Martin'S Loaf or a side of cornbread for a comforting combination.
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).