Choice Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili with ground beef, tomato soup, and spices, perfect for satisfying a crowd and adaptable in heat level for casual or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked mixture.
- Add tomato soup, tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or garlic when browning the beef and onion. If you prefer a spicier chili, increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, use beans and omit the meat altogether, similar to a Rancho Bean Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Consider serving with tortilla chips for added crunch, or alongside a fresh salad for balance. This dish is perfect for game days or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. For longer storage, freeze in portions and thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Choice Chili contains roughly 308 calories, with 13g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2383mg per serving (104% 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! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats for added depth. If you want a vegetarian option, simply replace the meat with an extra can of beans or some lentils for protein.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or incorporate fresh or dried hot peppers like jalapeños or cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with spicy beans or hot sauce to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I prepare this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili actually tastes better the next day! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving, and remember that flavors will develop more as it sits.
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).