Chili For Charlie
Chili For Charlie is a hearty, savory dish combining ground beef, vegetables, and a touch of unsweetened chocolate for depth. Its bold flavors and comforting warmth make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal with a hint of spice and richness.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 large green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 cup diced celery ⓘ
- 1 oz. unsweetened chocolate ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 large can tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste ⓘ
- 2 cans red kidney beans ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. sugar ⓘ
- 2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in olive oil.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper to the beef.
- Saute until the onion is transparent.
- Add diced celery, unsweetened chocolate, oregano, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, red kidney beans, sugar, salt, and chili powder.
- Cover the pan and bring to a quick boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer slowly for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your chili, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Additionally, using a mix of bell peppers can add a nice color and sweetness to the dish. For a richer taste, let the chili sit overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with some warm crusty bread. You might also enjoy it with a side of Kraft Macaroni And Hamburger for a comforting combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili For Charlie contains roughly 741 calories, with 29g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1395mg per serving (61% 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 other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even diced steak if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats may cook faster. For a smoky flavor, try using ground pork or a blend of meats.
How can I make my chili spicier?
To increase the spice level, add chopped jalapeños or other hot peppers when sautéing the vegetables. You can also include a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of chili powder used in the recipe. Experiment with different chili powders for varied heat profiles.
Is there a way to thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a bit longer to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the chili, cooking for a few more minutes until it thickens.
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).