Don'S Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and spices, complemented by spaghetti. Perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef and onions in a covered skillet; add black pepper and cook until the redness is gone.
- Add chili powder and about 1 cup water; season with salt and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- In a separate 5 to 6-quart pot, combine tomato juice, tomato soup, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, catsup, garlic powder, 1 to 2 cups water, sugar, and beans.
- Mix thoroughly and heat to near boiling.
- Add the cooked meat and onions to the pot.
- Bring to a boil and add broken spaghetti pieces (about 2 inches); cook until spaghetti is tender.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt, sugar, or water as desired.
- Skim fat from chili and serve immediately or later.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with chopped bell peppers or adding diced jalapeños for a kick. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti instead of thin spaghetti for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Don'S Chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. This chili pairs beautifully with Good Old Southern-Style Tasty Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the chili thickens, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Don'S Chili contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! Don'S Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and refrigerate it. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze Don'S Chili for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What kind of beans should I use?
You can use any beans you like! Common choices are kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans. For extra texture and flavor, try combining different types. Just make sure to rinse canned beans before adding them to the chili.
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).