Chili For Forty
A hearty and flavorful chili packed with ground beef, robust spices, and rich tomato juice. Perfect for feeding a crowd or family gatherings, this dish offers warm, savory notes with a mild kick. Its simplicity and bold flavors make it a comforting choice for casual meals or game days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a heavy big pot.
- When the meat loses its pink color, add flour and seasonings (chili powder, salt, cumin, minced onions).
- Mix well, then add tomato juice.
- Let simmer as long as possible to develop flavor.
- Cool the chili.
- Remove fat from the top, then reheat to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or jalapeños alongside the onions. If you prefer a thicker chili, increase the flour slightly or let it simmer longer. Using ground turkey can be a leaner substitute for ground beef, while canned diced tomatoes can enhance texture. Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference, or try a blend of spices from other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. For a complete spread, consider offering sides like a fresh salad or coleslaw. This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it an excellent choice for a potluck or game day.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili For Forty contains roughly 225 calories, with 10g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (186% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a mix of beans, lentils, or even textured vegetable protein. Adjust the seasoning as needed and consider adding more vegetables to maintain a hearty texture.
How spicy is this chili?
The spiciness of the chili largely depends on the type and amount of chili powder used. To control the heat, start with a mild chili powder and gradually increase to your liking. You can also add fresh or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick, if desired.
Can I add other ingredients to this chili?
Absolutely! You can customize your chili by adding ingredients like corn, black beans, or even diced tomatoes for additional flavor and texture. Experimenting with different spices or herbs can also give the chili a unique twist, making it your own.
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).