Easy Chile
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground meat, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet and drain well; season with salt and pepper.
- Add chopped onions, tomato soup, and minced garlic to the meat.
- Stir the mixture well and add chili powder to taste.
- Simmer the chili uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes to develop flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a mix of ground beef and turkey. You can substitute tomato soup with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a fresher taste. If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Consider using canned beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety. Don't forget to season well with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some homemade guacamole. This chili is also great for game day gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chile contains roughly 635 calories, with 23g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and protein (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% 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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground meat with textured vegetable protein or lentils. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and nutrition. Just ensure your vegetable broth is robust to maintain flavor.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level can vary depending on the amount of chili powder used. For a mild chili, stick to the recommended 2 tablespoons. If you prefer more heat, consider adding extra chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce to taste. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Can I prepare this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
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).