Connie R'S Chili
Connie R's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and chili lovers seeking a rich, smoky taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a 5-quart Dutch oven. Drain fat.
- Add all remaining ingredients and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a diced onion and minced garlic when browning the ground beef. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey for a lighter version, similar to recipes like Crock-Pot Turkey Chili. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as it simmers for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with cornbread or over rice for a comforting meal. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Easy Day Casserole for a complete family dinner. For a fun twist, serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Connie R'S Chili contains roughly 89 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2264mg per serving (98% 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 in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily convert this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef first, then combine all ingredients in the Crock-Pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a variety of beans like black beans and kidney beans. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a bit of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow the flavors. Another option is to add more tomato sauce or juice to dilute the spiciness.
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).