Dan'S Homemade Chili

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Dan's Homemade Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and beans, seasoned with chili powder and garlic. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, it offers a comforting taste with a balance of spice and sweetness, appealing to both chili lovers and casual diners.

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Ingredients

  • 4 lb ground beef
  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 1 large can tomato sauce
  • 2 cans tomato paste
  • 1 tsp garlic
  • 2 Tbsp chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp mustard
  • 1 tsp vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp sugar
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can kidney beans
  • small amount of spaghetti

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a large pot.
  2. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, garlic, chili powder, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot.
  3. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
  4. Add the kidney beans to the chili.
  5. Heat until the beans are hot.
  6. Optionally, add more tomato juice to make the chili thinner.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, use lentils or a mix of beans instead of beef. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat. This chili pairs beautifully with Beef Gravy And Biscuits for a hearty meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It goes wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice. Pair it with a side of Miniature Reubens for a delightful spread. For a bit of crunch, serve with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so slowly on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a little water or broth if it thickens too much.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Dan'S Homemade Chili contains roughly 1211 calories, with 81g protein, 222g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (302% of the Daily Value), iron (171% of the Daily Value), and protein (162% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 806mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).

1211 kcal 61% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 80.9g 100% DV
Total Fat 5.5g 7% DV
Carbs 222.5g 81% DV
Fiber 84.6g 100% DV
Sugar 29.4g 59% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 805.8mg 35% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 3.6mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 527.3mcg 59% DV
Vitamin C 65.8mg 73% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 590.3mg 45% DV
Iron 30.7mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a flavorful chili.

How can I make this chili spicier?

To increase the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use a spicier chili powder blend. Always taste as you go to ensure the heat level is to your liking.

What can I serve with chili?

Chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or even atop baked potatoes. A fresh salad or some crusty bread can also complement the dish nicely, adding freshness and texture.

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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