Corn Chili
A hearty, flavorful corn chili featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, with a mild to spicy kick depending on preference.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove frozen corn from freezer to defrost while preparing other ingredients.
- Brown onion, green pepper, and ground beef in hot fat in a heavy skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes and seasonings, then bring to a boil.
- Add frozen corn and mix well until kernels are well separated.
- Cover and cook until corn is done, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Add more chili powder if a hotter flavor is desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use fresh corn if it's in season, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish is versatile; try adding diced carrots or zucchini for extra veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Corn Chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a side salad or some tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a great choice alongside American recipes like Homestyle Meatloaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Chili contains roughly 1046 calories, with 12g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (299% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 660mg per serving (29% 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 fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh corn! Just cut the kernels off the cob and add them to the recipe. Since fresh corn cooks faster, reduce the cooking time to about 1-2 minutes after adding it to the chili.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder according to your taste preference. You can also include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
What can I serve with Corn Chili?
Corn Chili pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or cornbread. You might also consider serving it with a side of guacamole or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It’s great for gatherings, similar to serving Best Ever Stuffed Peppers.
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).