Chuckwagon Chili
A hearty, smoky chili with bacon, stew meat, and kidney beans, infused with coffee and chili spices; perfect for comforting gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put bacon and stew meat in a large covered dish and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Add chopped onions, garlic cloves, and water to the dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Add tomato sauce, chili powder, salt, basil, and kidney beans to the dish.
- Bake for another hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of water or let it simmer uncovered for a while. You can substitute stew meat with ground beef or turkey for a quicker option. For a slightly sweeter taste, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a diced bell pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chuckwagon Chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with String Beans And Corn for a refreshing side. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream for added flavor. It's also great as a filling for burritos or served with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chuckwagon Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chuckwagon Chili contains roughly 561 calories, with 20g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2538mg per serving (110% 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 beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute black beans or pinto beans based on your preference. Just make sure to rinse and drain canned beans before adding them to ensure the best flavor and texture.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder. You can also serve the chili with hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize the spice level to their liking.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, for a slow cooker version, brown the bacon and meat first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, yielding a deliciously rich chili.
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).