Chili(Nebraska Style)
Nebraska-style chili features hearty ground beef, fresh vegetables, and robust spices, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef together with chopped onion and bell pepper.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add remaining ingredients: chili mix, chili beans, tomato paste, tomatoes, water, salt, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped garlic or diced jalapeños. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils. To thicken the chili, you can add cornmeal or masa harina. Adjust the chili powder to your taste; Nebraska-style chili often has a milder profile, but feel free to spice it up if you enjoy heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Nebraska-style chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Sterling'S Chili Rice for a comforting combination. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. A side of tortilla chips or a fresh salad can also complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals. For longer storage, freeze in portions, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(Nebraska Style) contains roughly 1191 calories, with 50g protein, 274g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (432% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 981mg per serving (43% 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 a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef, onion, and bell pepper first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously rich flavor.
What can I add to make this chili spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced fresh jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce. You could also use a spicier chili mix if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve your desired spice level.
How can I thicken my chili if it's too watery?
If your chili is too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a bit longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the chili, cooking until thickened.
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).