Easy Chili Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili bean dish featuring kidney beans, tomato soup, and ground beef, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and chili powder to taste in a large pot.
- Cook over medium heat until well blended and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Don't hesitate to adjust the chili powder according to your heat preference. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onion and green pepper before adding them to the pot. This dish is versatile, so feel free to add other beans or vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the easy chili beans with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro can elevate the dish. This chili pairs beautifully with Big Wheel Loaf, creating a comforting and satisfying dinner. Consider serving with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl for a few minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chili Beans contains roughly 1275 calories, with 62g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (212% of the Daily Value), protein (124% of the Daily Value), and iron (123% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1215mg 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 use different types of beans?
Absolutely! You can use black beans, pinto beans, or even a mix of your favorites. Just ensure they are canned and rinsed, or if using dried beans, cook them beforehand. This flexibility allows you to customize the flavor and texture of the chili beans to your liking.
How can I thicken the chili?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can let the chili simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina can help thicken it without altering the flavor significantly. Just stir it in gradually to avoid lumps.
What can I serve with chili beans?
Chili beans are great on their own but pair wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You could also serve them alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. For a complete meal, consider offering a dessert like brownies to round out the dinner experience.
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).