Chili For An Army
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground meat, linguica, beans, and smoky spices, perfect for feeding a crowd or a family gathering with bold taste and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the hamburger and linguica until done; drain off most of the fat. Put the meat into a 5-quart pan.
- Sauté onions and bell peppers, then add to the meat.
- Add kidney beans, maple syrup, crushed red pepper, and crushed tomatoes.
- Heat on low-medium heat, covered, until hot.
- Add chili powder to taste.
- Stir often.
- Taste often.
- Be careful with the chili powder unless you are a fire-breathing dragon!
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding corn or diced carrots for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the hamburger and linguica for black beans and additional vegetables. Adjust the heat by using mild or spicy crushed red pepper based on your preference. Remember, the longer the chili simmers, the deeper the flavors become.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Betty Lou'S Potato Salad for a complete feast or can be enjoyed with tortilla chips for a fun, casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals or warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, chili can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili For An Army contains roughly 243 calories, with 15g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Simply reheat before serving. This is a great option for parties or busy weeknights.
What can I substitute for linguica?
If you can't find linguica, you can use chorizo or any smoked sausage as a substitute. For a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. Just ensure that the sausage you choose has a good amount of seasoning to complement the chili.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start by adding a small amount of chili powder and crushed red pepper, then taste as you go. For milder chili, use less or opt for a milder chili powder. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese to balance the heat.
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).