Carolin'S Texas Chili
A hearty Texas chili packed with lean ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and bold spices, perfect for satisfying a crowd and warming up chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, cook chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery in 1/4 cup water until tender.
- In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Stir in the cooked vegetables, tomato paste, Ro-Tel diced tomatoes and chilies, and flour.
- Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Pour in water or beef broth if needed to desired consistency.
- Drain and rinse the red kidney beans, then stir into the chili.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a spicier chili, include some chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey for the beef. When using canned beans, look for low-sodium options to reduce salt intake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Tom'S Favorite Chili for variety or even some Baked Beans(In A Crock-Pot).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolin'S Texas Chili contains roughly 621 calories, with 17g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1086mg per serving (47% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to deepen. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option. Each will provide a different flavor profile, so adjust your seasonings accordingly to maintain the chili's richness.
How can I thicken my chili if it's too watery?
If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the chili to quickly thicken it up.
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).