Chili Pizzeria
A hearty chili macaroni dish combining spicy flavors with tender pasta and beans, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble the hamburger and add the diced onion, then brown the meat and onion together.
- Add all remaining ingredients: kidney beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, chili powder, oregano, orange peel, and thyme.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. If you don't have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes. You can also swap the macaroni for other pasta shapes, like penne or fusilli, to add variety. To enhance the dish further, try adding some bell peppers or corn for extra color and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Pizzeria hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, such as a Vegetable Layered Salad, or some crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Cheddared Baked Potato Soup for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Pizzeria contains roughly 566 calories, with 35g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (164% of the Daily Value), iron (130% of the Daily Value), and protein (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1970mg per serving (86% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or using additional beans and vegetables. Consider adding lentils or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice up the Chili Pizzeria, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Additionally, using a spicier chili powder or incorporating some red pepper flakes will enhance the heat level without overpowering the dish.
What should I serve with Chili Pizzeria?
Chili Pizzeria is great on its own, but you can complement it with sides like cornbread, a simple green salad, or tortilla chips for crunch. A refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade also works well to balance the flavors.
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).