Chuck'S Chile Con Carne
Chuck's Chile Con Carne is a hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, and a blend of spices. Perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, its rich, spicy taste appeals to chili lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a 3-quart saucepan, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; drain.
- Stir in remaining ingredients except beans.
- Break up the tomatoes with a spoon or fork.
- Heat to boiling, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the beans.
- Heat to boiling again.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper sauce or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and if you’re out of kidney beans, pinto beans work well too. Serve with warm tortillas for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chile Con Carne with a dollop of sour cream and chopped cilantro on top for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with Baked Mexican Rice or warm tortillas. This hearty dish also complements cornbread or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, use it as a filling for Beef And Bean Wraps.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chuck'S Chile Con Carne contains roughly 721 calories, with 28g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (246% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (148% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1024mg per serving (45% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a combination of lentils, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of the beef juices to enhance the flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the spice level, start with less red pepper sauce and taste as you go. You can always add more if you prefer it spicier. Additionally, consider using mild chili powder instead of regular to keep the heat down.
What can I serve with Chile Con Carne?
Chile Con Carne is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with rice, tortillas, or cornbread. For a complete meal, add a side of easy enchilada casserole or a fresh salad.
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).