Carlene'S Chili
Carlene's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, beans, and spicy seasonings, perfect for satisfying a crowd on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet and drain the excess fat.
- Add chili seasoning to the drained ground beef and stir to combine.
- In a large saucepan, sauté onions with can of Rotel tomatoes.
- Add the cooked ground beef, beans with their juice, Tabasco chili mix, and bay leaf to the saucepan.
- Let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of beer to the simmering chili. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh ones for convenience. Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili seasoning based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carlene's Chili with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Joe'S Special for a complete dinner. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. Enjoy it with tortilla chips for dipping or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
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, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carlene'S Chili contains roughly 17 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making chili ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop when you're ready to serve, and it will taste even better than the first day.
What type of beans are best for chili?
Common choices for chili include kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans. You can use a combination for varied texture and flavor. Canned beans are convenient, but if you prefer, you can also cook dried beans ahead of time and add them to the chili for a more homemade touch.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce along with the chili seasoning. You can also add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level for a chili that packs a punch.
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).