Chili Low Calorie
A hearty, flavorful low-calorie chili packed with beans, vegetables, and lean meat, perfect for health-conscious gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onions, pepper, and lean ground chuck in a skillet.
- Transfer the browned mixture to a pot and add the tomatoes and seasonings; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the cooked kidney beans in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lower-calorie option, consider using ground turkey instead of lean ground chuck. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added nutrients and flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Make sure to drain and rinse the kidney beans to reduce sodium content. This chili recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy touch. It pairs beautifully with Rice With Beans And Jalapenos for a complete meal. Consider serving with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. This dish also goes well with a side of Mexican Rice And Fried Plantains for a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions covered, but be sure to stir halfway through for even heating. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Low Calorie contains roughly 369 calories, with 9g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% 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 make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare it as instructed, let it cool, and store in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.
What can I add to make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply replace the ground chuck with additional beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, or use meat substitutes available in stores. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and mushrooms to enhance the texture and flavor without sacrificing the heartiness 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).