Chili Rolls
Flavorful chili-filled rolls with melted cheese, perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner, blending savory beef, spicy chili sauce, and gooey cheese flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a slit in the side of each roll without cutting all the way through and scoop out the insides.
- Set the hollowed-out rolls aside.
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a skillet.
- Add chili sauce, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture, stirring, for 10 minutes.
- Cut cheddar cheese into chunks.
- Stir the cheese into the meat mixture and heat until almost melted.
- Fill each roll with the chili mixture.
- Wrap each filled roll in foil.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute. Use crusty Italian rolls for a different texture. Make sure to scoop out enough of the roll insides to allow for a generous filling.
Serving Suggestions
These chili rolls are perfect for game day or family gatherings. Serve them with a side of crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair well with a bowl of soup, like Christmas Eve Soup, for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving with a dipping sauce like ranch or sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven will keep the rolls crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Rolls contains roughly 216 calories, with 12g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% 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 chili rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Fill the rolls just before baking to keep them fresh. If baked rolls are stored, they may become soggy, so it's best to bake them fresh when serving.
What can I serve with chili rolls?
Chili rolls pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or some crispy potato wedges. For a heartier meal, you might also enjoy them alongside a bowl of beef recipes like Riverbank Stew.
Are chili rolls freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the filled rolls before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer; just increase the baking time slightly.
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).