Cheese-Sprinkled Chili
A hearty chili topped with melted sharp Cheddar, featuring savory ground beef, beans, and bold spices. Perfect for comfort food lovers and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground chuck and chopped onion until browned.
- Add flour, salt, pepper, and water; stir to thicken.
- Add tomato soup, kidney beans, and chili powder; simmer until heated through.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated sharp Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a blend of ground meats like turkey or chicken along with the ground chuck. You can substitute the tomato soup with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Adjust the chili powder to your taste or try adding a dash of cumin for extra warmth. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the meat with lentils or beans, making this a fantastic choice among vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese-sprinkled chili pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it with tortilla chips for dipping or top it with diced avocado or sour cream. It also makes a great filling for baked potatoes or as a topping for nachos, making it a versatile dish for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For a quick option, you can also use the microwave, heating in short intervals while stirring to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Sprinkled Chili contains roughly 538 calories, with 19g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2376mg per serving (103% 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 ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat it when you're ready to serve, and feel free to add extra toppings like cheese or cilantro for freshness.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add more heat to your chili, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while it simmers. You could also use a spicier chili powder blend or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Just remember to adjust the seasoning gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is there a way to make this chili less thick?
If you prefer a thinner chili, simply add more water or broth while it cooks to reach your desired consistency. You can also stir in some canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for extra liquid without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the balance.
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).