Chili Con Carne * Chow Mein Noodles
A hearty and flavorful chili con carne with tender ground beef, beans, and smoky spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt fat in a heavy skillet over low heat.
- Add chopped onions, green peppers, red peppers, and chopped garlic; stir gently and cook for about 3 minutes, until soft and slightly brown.
- Remove garlic from the skillet.
- Add ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the flavors are well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cumin or smoked paprika. If you're out of kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans make great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference; you can even add some chopped jalapeños for extra kick. This dish is versatile and can suit various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili con carne with chow mein noodles for a unique twist. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider topping it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. This dish is also great alongside Mexican recipes for a themed dinner night or to complement dishes like Tempting Taco Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili con carne 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, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Carne * Chow Mein Noodles contains roughly 1717 calories, with 40g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 147g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), protein (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1079mg per serving (47% 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 con carne ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I serve with chili con carne?
Chili con carne is delicious on its own but can be elevated with various sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. It also goes well with a refreshing salad or can be used as a topping for baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
How can I adjust the spice level of the chili?
To control the spice level, adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste. For a milder version, reduce it or use a sweet paprika instead. If you like it spicy, add fresh or canned jalapeños, or try a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
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).