Chili For 50 People

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 50 Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful chili perfect for large gatherings, featuring tender beef, beans, and rich tomato sauce, ideal for feeding a crowd with bold, comforting flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 5 onions
  • 7 lb hamburger
  • 2 gal chili beans
  • 1/2 gal tomato sauce
  • 4 packets chili seasoning
  • 2 cans tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Saute onions in butter until translucent.
  2. Fry hamburger until browned.
  3. Add chili beans, tomato sauce, chili seasoning, and tomatoes to the meat.
  4. Simmer the mixture for about an hour, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the chili. If you're short on time, canned beans can be substituted for dried beans, just adjust cooking time accordingly. Fresh garlic can also enhance the taste; add it while sautéing the onions. For a spicier kick, include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Ranch-Style Potato Slices for a hearty meal. For a complete spread, consider offering cornbread or Southern Style Beans as sides, making it a satisfying gathering dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chili For 50 People contains roughly 160 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).

160 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.9g 10% DV
Total Fat 8.4g 11% DV
Carbs 16.8g 6% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 3.3g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 315.7mg 14% DV
Potassium 190.9mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 8.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 17.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 5.5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 28mg 2% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the hamburger with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, and more beans. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based ingredients to maintain the depth of flavor.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?

To adjust the spiciness, start with mild chili seasoning and add diced jalapeños or chili powder gradually until you reach your desired heat level. You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who prefer extra spice.

What are the best toppings for chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. You can also add crushed tortilla chips for crunch or avocado slices for creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

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).

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