Chile Chili
A hearty, spicy chili packed with ground beef, beans, and smoky chiles, perfect for warming up gatherings and satisfying cravings for bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped bell pepper, and chopped onion together in a large pot.
- Add all remaining ingredients: Ro-Tel tomatoes, whole chiles, chili beans, kidney beans, chili seasoning, tomato soup, tomato paste, and water.
- Simmer the mixture for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you're short on time, you can substitute the fresh bell pepper and onion with frozen mixed vegetables. Using lean ground beef helps reduce fat, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version. This chili also works great with additional beans or vegetables for a heartier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chile Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. For an easy side, consider serving a fresh green salad or pairing it with a slice of Penny's Mexican Lasagna for a satisfying dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile Chili contains roughly 734 calories, with 44g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), and protein (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1590mg per serving (69% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and it will be ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with this chili?
This Chile Chili pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. For a refreshing contrast, a simple salad or guacamole complements the dish nicely. You might also enjoy it alongside Taco Crescents for a fun twist.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, using canned beans is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the pot to reduce sodium content. This way, you can enjoy a hearty chili without the long cooking time associated with dried beans.
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).