Easy Chili Con Carne
A hearty and flavorful chili con carne with ground beef, beans, and a hint of chili powder, perfect for warming up on cold days and suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry out the ground beef in a pan.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and cook until lightly browned.
- Add pinto beans, condensed tomato soup, and chili powder.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for 20 minutes.
- Serve with saltine crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use black beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor. If you don’t have condensed tomato soup, crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute, just adjust the seasoning accordingly. This dish is a great base for variations, similar to Easy Taco Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili con carne with saltine crackers for a classic touch, or try it with cornbread for a heartier meal. It pairs well with a fresh salad or guacamole on the side. For a twist, top with shredded cheese and sour cream, or serve alongside Fred'S Beans And Tamales for a complete Mexican-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chili Con Carne contains roughly 251 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 575mg per serving (25% 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?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Use vegetable broth instead of the tomato soup and add more beans or vegetables for heartiness. This allows you to enjoy a delicious meat-free version while still capturing the essence of chili.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to create a thicker consistency. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water for a quick thickening solution.
What can I add for extra flavor?
To enhance the flavor of your chili, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Chopped bell peppers can also add sweetness and depth, while fresh cilantro as a garnish brings a bright and fresh note. These additions can elevate your chili, making it even more enjoyable.
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).