Chile Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, and bold chili spices. Perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, it offers a comforting, mildly spicy taste with versatile serving options like crackers or bread. Suitable for those craving a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet or pot.
- Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, mashed tomatoes, chili powder, and drained kidney beans.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with crackers, cornbread, or French bread slices.
- Optional: prepare in a crock-pot or freeze for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can substitute ground turkey or vegetarian meat for a lighter or meatless option. Feel free to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This recipe is quite versatile and can be tailored to your preferences, making it a staple in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, accompanied by crackers, cornbread, or slices of French bread for dipping. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast to the dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. This chili beans dish also works great as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes well; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile Beans contains roughly 558 calories, with 34g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value), iron (79% of the Daily Value), and protein (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% 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 recipe?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can experiment with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a unique flavor. Just ensure that the beans are drained and rinsed if using canned, or properly cooked if using dried beans.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Chile Beans, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or increase the amount of beans used. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
What is the best way to serve Chile Beans at a gathering?
For gatherings, serve Chile Beans in a slow cooker to keep them warm throughout the event. Set out toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream for guests to customize their bowls. Pair with tortilla chips or a nacho bar for a fun twist!
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).