Chili Bean Surprise
Hearty, smoky chili with beans and barbecue sauce, finished with comforting macaroni—perfect for a quick family dinner that delivers bold, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a large pot until fully cooked, draining excess fat.
- Add chili powder and Mrs. Dash to taste, stirring to coat the meat with spices.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, pinto beans, and barbecue sauce, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 25{"minutes 30"} minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Add cooked macaroni, stir to combine, and heat through for a final 5 minutes before serving.
- servings 4
- cuisine American
- instructions 5 10 30 1
Tips & Substitutions
For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers when browning the hamburger. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with lentils or additional beans. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference, and feel free to add hot sauce for more heat. Pairing this dish with cornbread or a fresh salad can enhance your meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Bean Surprise hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side of homemade Amish Hot Potato Salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for a fun twist or over rice for a heartier option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Bean Surprise contains roughly 432 calories, with 18g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1479mg per serving (64% 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 beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or any other beans you have on hand. Each variety will add its unique flavor and texture, making this dish versatile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. Additionally, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the spice level without altering the dish's integrity.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, Chili Bean Surprise freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).