Chili Con Carne
Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, beans, and spices for a warming meal. Its rich tomato base and robust chili seasoning create a perfect balance of savory and spicy notes. Ideal for family gatherings or game day, this crowd-pleaser is satisfying and easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onions and ground beef in a large pot; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, water, kidney beans, chili powder, and chili seasoning to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture until heated through, adjusting spices like salt, Tabasco, and red pepper to taste.
- Serve hot. The flavors develop even more if enjoyed the next day.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the chili. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference, and feel free to mix in some diced bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili con carne with a dollop of sour cream and some shredded cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips, and you can also serve it alongside a fresh Taco Salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try using it as a filling for burritos or tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the chili and heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; just ensure it's fully cooled before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Carne contains roughly 693 calories, with 45g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (168% of the Daily Value), protein (89% of the Daily Value), and iron (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1833mg per serving (80% 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 chili con carne in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely make chili con carne in a slow cooker! Brown the onions and beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously hearty meal.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili con carne turns out too spicy, you can balance it by adding a bit of sugar or honey to cut the heat. Alternatively, stir in some sour cream or cream cheese to mellow the flavors. Adding more beans or tomatoes can also help dilute the spice without altering the taste significantly.
How can I thicken my chili?
To thicken your chili con carne, you can mash some of the kidney beans against the side of the pot and stir them back in. Another option is to let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. If you prefer, adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) can also help achieve a thicker consistency.
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).