Easy Chili(Kids Cooking)
A hearty, kid-friendly chili with tender ground beef, beans, and mild spices, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground beef and chopped onion in a large heavy saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until ground beef is browned.
- Pour off grease.
- Add beans, tomato soup, water, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder chili, reduce the chili powder or add a bit of sugar to balance the flavors. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes. For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or a dash of hot sauce. This easy chili is perfect for kids cooking together!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this easy chili with cornbread or over baked potatoes for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions can enhance the dish. It pairs beautifully with Whiskey Sweet 'N' Sour Meat Balls for a fun dinner spread. Consider adding a side salad for some freshness to balance the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also freeze chili for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chili(Kids Cooking) contains roughly 733 calories, with 34g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and protein (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1327mg per serving (58% 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 cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You might also want to add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Just ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a bit of sugar or honey. Adding more tomato soup or beans can also dilute the spice. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream to help cool it down for those who are sensitive to heat.
How can I increase the protein content?
To boost the protein content, consider adding additional beans like black beans or pinto beans. You can also mix in some cooked quinoa or serve the chili over a bed of brown rice for added protein and fiber, making it a filling meal.
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).