Christmas Chili
A hearty and flavorful Christmas chili featuring ground beef, corn, tomatoes, and salsa, perfect for festive gatherings and satisfying spicy cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the browned and drained ground chuck, drained corn, diced tomatoes with garlic and onion, salsa, and drained kidney beans in a frying pan.
- Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
- Serve with tortilla chips or warm French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use canned black beans instead of kidney beans. To enhance the flavor, try adding a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked meat can speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Christmas Chili with tortilla chips for dipping, or opt for warm French bread to soak up the delicious flavors. It pairs beautifully with Six Weeks Slaw for a refreshing crunch on the side. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to elevate the dish further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a paper towel, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Chili contains roughly 852 calories, with 56g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), protein (111% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1367mg per serving (59% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative or by using additional beans and lentils. Make sure to check your salsa and canned ingredients for any hidden animal products to keep it fully vegetarian.
How can I thicken my chili?
If you find your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, adding cornmeal or masa harina can also help achieve a thicker consistency while enhancing the flavor.
Is this chili freezable?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
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).