Damn Good Chili

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful chili packed with cumin, oregano, and cayenne, perfect for satisfying cravings and suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. hamburger
  • onion salt
  • garlic salt
  • 2 Tbsp. green pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. cumin
  • 1/4 tsp. oregano
  • 1/4 tsp. basil
  • 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. mustard
  • 2 tsp. chili powder
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes
  • 1 can kidney beans

Instructions

  1. Brown the hamburger in a skillet, then add onion and garlic salt. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add remaining ingredients: green pepper, cumin, oregano, basil, cayenne pepper, mustard, chili powder, sugar, tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce.
  3. Cook uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you like it spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the dish when served.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Lynda'S Potato Salad as a refreshing side dish. Cornbread or tortilla chips make great accompaniments, adding texture and flavor to your meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Damn Good Chili contains roughly 490 calories, with 23g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), and calcium (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

490 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 23.1g 46% DV
Total Fat 26g 33% DV
Carbs 64.7g 24% DV
Fiber 16.8g 60% DV
Sugar 9g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 223.1mg 10% DV
Potassium 2594.8mg 55% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 142.5mcg 16% DV
Vitamin C 110.9mg 100% DV
Calcium 1110.4mg 85% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making chili a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. It's a perfect dish for meal prep or a gathering with friends.

What can I serve with chili?

Chili is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, you might also enjoy it alongside Atlantic Pork Chops or a fresh batch of tortilla chips.

Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Definitely! Feel free to add diced carrots, zucchini, or corn to boost the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté the vegetables along with the hamburger before adding the remaining ingredients for a delicious 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).

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