*Church Cookout Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili perfect for church cookouts and gatherings, featuring rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and a hint of Worcestershire for depth. Its slow-cooker method makes it easy to prepare ahead, serving a crowd with comfort and bold taste in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain well.
- Put the cooked meat into a crock-pot.
- Add the tomato sauces and Worcestershire sauce to the crock-pot.
- Cook on high for 1 hour, then turn to low and cook for 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin to the meat while browning. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half the ground beef with ground turkey. Don’t forget to taste before serving; you might want to adjust the seasoning. This chili recipe is versatile enough to adapt to personal preferences, making it a great base for any chili variations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or some tortilla chips. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Church Cookout Chili contains roughly 1623 calories, with 53g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (106% of the Daily Value), iron (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1611mg per serving (70% 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 a different type of meat for this chili?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, or even use a mix of meats like pork or sausage for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as necessary, especially if using a meat that cooks faster.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also add hot sauce to individual servings for those who enjoy an extra kick. Experimenting with different chili powders can also adjust the spiciness to your liking.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply stir in a little beef broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add canned diced tomatoes with their juice for extra flavor and moisture. Just let it simmer a bit longer to meld the flavors.
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).