Dad'S Chili Recipe
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the hamburger in a large skillet until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the kidney beans and cook for a few minutes.
- Slice the whole tomatoes and add them to the mixture.
- Add tomato paste and water to reach desired thickness.
- Mix in dry chili mix and Tabasco sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then simmer for additional flavor development.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the hamburger with a tablespoon of cumin or smoked paprika. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use canned black beans instead of kidney beans for a different texture. Adjust the Tabasco sauce to your heat preference, and try adding a dash of cocoa powder for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with The Ultimate Grilled Cheese for a satisfying combination. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for extra flavor. For a hearty dinner, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Chili Recipe contains roughly 903 calories, with 48g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (203% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (166% of the Daily Value), and protein (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1645mg per serving (72% 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?
Absolutely! Brown the hamburger and sauté the onions and peppers first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can add more Tabasco sauce or include chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers. Additionally, consider using a spicy chili powder or adding cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Dad's Chili?
This chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over baked potatoes or incorporate it into dishes like Noodle Marzetti for a unique twist.
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).