Chili(Power Level: High, 100%. Cooking Time: 29 To 35 Minutes)
A hearty, flavorful chili with tender beef, beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for warming up and satisfying a crowd with bold, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground beef, onions, green pepper, and garlic in a 3-quart casserole.
- Microwave on High (100%) for 4 to 5 minutes until beef is no longer pink and vegetables are tender, stirring halfway through.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Microwave on High (100%) for 25 to 30 minutes or until heated through, stirring after cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans for varied texture and flavor. For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a scoop of rice. Explore other comforting options like Preppy Mexican Crescent Pie for a delightful dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(Power Level: High, 100%. Cooking Time: 29 To 35 Minutes) contains roughly 802 calories, with 38g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (159% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (133% of the Daily Value), and iron (114% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2127mg per serving (92% 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 different types of meat in this chili?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Each will impart a slightly different flavor but will still work well with the other ingredients.
How spicy is this chili recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your chili powder and any additional spices you choose to add. For a milder flavor, start with the lower amount of chili powder and add more to taste. If you like it hot, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chilies.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting in the fridge overnight. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving, and it’s ready to enjoy. This is a great meal prep option for busy weeknights!
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).