Donna'S Chili
Donna's Chili offers a hearty, flavorful blend of beef, beans, and vegetables, perfect for comforting gatherings or family dinners with a rich chili aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a large pot.
- Saute the chopped onion and bell pepper until tender.
- Add the cooked meat, mushrooms, pinto beans, tomato soup, and canned tomatoes to the pot.
- Mix in the chili powder and season to taste.
- Simmer the chili for 2 hours or more, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the hamburger meat with some garlic and cumin. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with textured vegetable protein or lentils. You can also swap pinto beans for black beans or kidney beans based on your preference. Remember to adjust the chili powder mix according to your spice tolerance for the perfect kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Donna's Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Hamburger-Spaghetti Casserole or with tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy with a refreshing beverage to balance the spices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Microwave heating is also an option; just cover the bowl to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Donna'S Chili contains roughly 535 calories, with 24g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (210% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 895mg per serving (39% 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 meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty chili.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Popular options include cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun twist. Additionally, it complements well with a variety of toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or even Fritos for crunch.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with less chili powder and taste as you go. You can always add more if needed. Additionally, for heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a milder version, opt for sweet bell peppers and reduce or eliminate the chili powder altogether.
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).