Easy Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, ketchup, and chili powder, simmered to develop rich tastes. Perfect for casual family dinners or game nights, this easy-to-make dish offers a sweet and tangy twist on traditional chili with minimal ingredients and quick preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a frypan or pot.
- Remove from heat.
- Drain excess fat.
- Add ketchup, water, and chili powder to the cooked beef.
- Mix well.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions, garlic, or bell peppers while browning the ground beef. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. To add more heat, try mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is similar to other American recipes like Slim Jim Chili, making it a versatile choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy side. For a complete meal, consider offering a simple salad or steamed vegetables alongside.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just defrost before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chili contains roughly 391 calories, with 22g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 adapt this recipe by substituting the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld together well.
How can I make my chili thicker?
To thicken your chili, consider simmering it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water or some crushed tortilla chips to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili is delicious on its own, but for a well-rounded meal, serve it with cornbread, rice, or baked potatoes. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños add extra flavor and texture, 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).