Cleveland Chili
Cleveland Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground sirloin, fresh vegetables, and rich spices. Its bold taste is perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of savory and spicy notes that can be served over mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion, garlic, green pepper, celery, salt, and pepper in butter.
- When cooked, remove from pan and set aside in a bowl.
- Brown the ground sirloin and drain excess fat.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the browned meat.
- Add stewed tomatoes, chili beans, and spices to the mixture.
- Simmer on low heat for 1 hour.
- Serve over mashed potatoes if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground sirloin with lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat. Don’t forget to taste as you go and tweak the chili powder to suit your palate.
Serving Suggestions
Cleveland Chili is delightful served over creamy mashed potatoes, which can help balance the dish's robust flavors. You might also enjoy it alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. For a fresh touch, serve with a side of Pretty Patio Salad to add crunch and brightness to your plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cleveland Chili contains roughly 2457 calories, with 13g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 228g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1034mg 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 Cleveland Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of chili beans?
If you don't have chili beans on hand, black beans or kidney beans work well as substitutes. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the chili for the best texture.
Is this chili spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of chili powder you use. To keep it mild, start with a smaller amount and gradually increase it to your liking. Adding more vegetables can also help tone down the heat.
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).