Chili(Made Easy)
A hearty and flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings, offering a balance of savory and spicy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until almost browned.
- Add the chopped onions, minced green pepper, and garlic.
- Continue cooking until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the drained beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, A.1. sauce, chili powder, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also add other vegetables like corn or diced carrots for added texture and nutrition. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference and try different beans to customize your chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with Chili Cheese Nachos for a satisfying meal. You can also serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a hearty dinner. Consider a side of cornbread or a simple salad to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(Made Easy) contains roughly 726 calories, with 19g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. 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 use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef in this recipe. It will still provide a hearty texture, and you can season it similarly to enhance the flavor. Just be mindful that turkey may cook faster, so keep an eye on it while browning.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also include crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Adjust the spices gradually to achieve your desired level of spice.
Can I prepare this chili in advance?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
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).