Cheater Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili with ground beef, vegetables, and bold spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large kettle, cook ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic until the meat is browned.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Combine the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Taste before serving, adding more chili powder or hot sauce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding a can of corn or diced tomatoes. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the chili powder and hot sauce according to your spice tolerance. This recipe is a great base; feel free to experiment with other spices that complement chili, such as cumin or smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheater Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside 'Hot To Trot' Dip for a flavorful appetizer spread. A fresh green salad can also balance the richness of the chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheater Chili contains roughly 635 calories, with 30g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (357% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 780mg per serving (34% 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 turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to create a lighter version of this chili. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as lean meats may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, try adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream to mellow the heat. You can also add more beans or diced tomatoes to dilute the spice while enhancing the flavor.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
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).