Chili - Rotel Style
A hearty, flavorful chili with diced tomatoes, green chilies, and seasoned ground beef, perfect for satisfying a crowd or warming up on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a large stock pot until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess drippings from the pot.
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato puree, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If ground beef isn't available, ground turkey or chicken can be good alternatives. To enhance the flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Pairing with homemade cornbread can elevate your meal, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or a side of cornbread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side salad or over rice, making it a versatile option for any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the chili as it may thicken in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili - Rotel Style contains roughly 233 calories, with 12g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 801mg per serving (35% 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 in advance?
Yes, this chili can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often improve overnight. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
What can I add to make it vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this chili, substitute the ground beef with a mix of beans such as black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans, along with additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for texture.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with mild Ro-Tel tomatoes and gradually add spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to your taste. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing each guest to customize their own bowl.
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).