Chili Manana
Savory chili‑soup with creamy potatoes and a hint of green chile, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty meal for anyone craving comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet until crumbly.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Add salt, pepper, and chili powder; simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add evaporated milk, green chiles, canned chili, and cream of chicken soup; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Set aside and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. If you prefer ground turkey or chicken, they can be substituted for the ground beef. To enhance the flavor, sauté onions and garlic with the meat. Using fresh green chiles instead of canned ones can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. Consider a side salad or a bowl of rice to balance the meal. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside Easy Parmesan Cream Sauce for a creamy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through. If you plan to freeze leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Manana contains roughly 813 calories, with 36g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (76% of the Daily Value), protein (72% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils. Additionally, ensure that the cream of chicken soup is replaced with a vegetable-based or dairy-free alternative to keep it fully vegetarian.
How can I thicken the chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water or a bit more cornmeal. Allow it to simmer for a few additional minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also reduce the liquid by simmering it longer.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. Simply follow the instructions, let it cool, and then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving, and enjoy the enhanced taste from the extra time in the fridge.
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).