Chili Lovers Only

Prep: 15 min Cook: 120 min Cuisine: American

A hearty, spicy chili packed with ground meat, beans, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting gatherings and chili lovers seeking bold, savory taste.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground meat
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 small green pepper, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, cut fine
  • 4 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
  • 1 large can stewed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 4 cans kidney beans
  • 2 shakes chili seasoning
  • 1/2 stick celery, cut small

Instructions

  1. In a large pot with 4 cans of tomato sauce, brown the ground meat, diced onion, garlic, and green pepper using 2 cups of water, and rinse all the cans.
  2. Stir occasionally with the lid on and cook for 1 hour.
  3. Uncover the pot.
  4. Stir the chili, then heat on low until it reaches the desired thickness, about 1 more hour.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If ground meat isn't your preference, try using turkey or a plant-based substitute for a healthier or vegan option. You can also adjust the kidney beans to your liking or replace them with black beans for a different texture. This chili can easily be customized to fit your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions can enhance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Jean Fuller'S Golden Fruit Punch, making for a delightful gathering. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad on the side.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the chili if it thickens too much, and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chili Lovers Only contains roughly 1962 calories, with 213g protein, 266g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (435% of the Daily Value), protein (425% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (271% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

1962 kcal 98% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 212.6g 100% DV
Total Fat 18.1g 23% DV
Carbs 266.2g 97% DV
Fiber 121.9g 100% DV
Sugar 12.1g 24% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 515.4mg 22% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 78.5mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 244.2mg 100% DV
Calcium 1111.4mg 85% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 in advance?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What can I substitute for tomato sauce?

If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste mixed with some water. This will give a similar base but may slightly alter the texture.

Is this chili suitable for freezing?

Yes, this chili freezes very well. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

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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