Chili(Firefighters Like It Hot)
A hearty, spicy chili with ground beef, beans, and vegetables, ideal for satisfying a crowd. Perfect for game day or casual family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In large heavy skillet, cook ground beef, chopped onions, and green pepper until meat is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Drain kidney beans, reserving the liquid.
- Add kidney beans, cooked tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, and reserved bean liquid to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Add cooked spaghetti if desired, and cook until heated through.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. To enhance the flavor, let the chili sit overnight in the fridge before serving, as the flavors develop further. This recipe can also be made as a Crock Pot Meat Dish for an easy meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or tortilla chips. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings or game day, and it's always a hit with fans of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in a microwave-safe dish until hot. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(Firefighters Like It Hot) contains roughly 309 calories, with 14g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, chili actually tastes better when made ahead of time! Prepare it a day in advance and let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a while to let some of the liquid evaporate. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina can also help thicken the chili without altering the flavor.
What toppings work well with chili?
Popular toppings for chili include shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. You can also try adding avocado slices or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture. Customize your toppings based on your taste preferences!
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).