Dianne'S Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring Mexican-style beans, seasoned ground beef, and fresh tomatoes, perfect for a satisfying Sunday lunch for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion; drain.
- Mix all other ingredients and add to the beef and onion.
- If needed, add tomato sauce at this time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils. You can also use canned black beans or Goldwater Beans for a variation in flavor and texture. Be sure to drain the beans well to prevent a watery chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dianne's Chili with warm cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Beef And Bean Nachos for a fun twist on game day snacks. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dianne'S Chili contains roughly 806 calories, with 28g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% 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 ground beef and onion in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for a convenient meal.
What can I use instead of NutraSweet?
If you're looking for a natural sweetener, consider using honey or agave syrup in place of NutraSweet. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste. Alternatively, you can omit the sweetener entirely if you prefer a more savory chili.
Is this chili spicy?
The spice level in Dianne's Chili can be adjusted based on your preference. As written, it is mild, but you can easily add more heat by incorporating chili powder or fresh peppers. Taste as you go, and remember that toppings like sour cream can also help balance any heat.
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).