Craig'S Crazy Chili
A hearty and spicy chili packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and rich flavors, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a large skillet, breaking the meat into small bite-sized pieces with a fork.
- In a large saucepan, combine the chili mix, beans in chili sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
- Add the browned ground chuck to the saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 1 to 1 1/2 hours to blend the flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker chili, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or a small can of corn. You can also substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. If you like a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This chili recipe is versatile, so feel free to mix in leftover meats or beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, topped with grated Cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and crumbled Fritos for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread, and a fresh salad on the side makes for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert, consider serving alongside Carolyn'S Strawberry Crunch Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili 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, or in the microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Craig'S Crazy Chili contains roughly 646 calories, with 45g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (89% of the Daily Value), calcium (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 874mg per serving (38% 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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground chuck with a mix of beans or lentils and ensure the chili mix is meat-free. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To control the spiciness, start by using a mild chili mix and gradually add hot sauce or diced chili peppers to taste. You can also balance out heat by adding a bit of sugar or honey to mellow the flavors. Adjust according to your preference.
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. For a comforting ending, try pairing it with Effie Kennedy'S Sugar Cookies for a sweet contrast.
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).