Ez Chili
Ez Chili is a hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan.
- Add chopped onion and bell peppers.
- Cook until onion is just transparent.
- Add ground beef to the pan.
- Brown the beef and drain excess fat.
- Return the beef mixture to the heat.
- Add crushed tomatoes, Ranch Style beans, garlic powder, and chili powder.
- Simmer over low heat for 2 hours.
- Serve with crackers or warm tortillas.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic along with the onion and bell peppers. If you prefer a spicier chili, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Canned beans can be swapped with dried beans, just ensure to soak and cook them beforehand. This chili could also be adapted into hearty Beef recipes like Hearty Beef Turnovers.
Serving Suggestions
This chili is perfect served with warm tortillas or crunchy crackers for a satisfying meal. You can top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. A side of cornbread or a simple green salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For a fun twist, try serving it with Burger Bean Cups for a unique party appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ez Chili contains roughly 225 calories, with 8g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, like lentils or textured vegetable protein. Additionally, make sure to use vegetarian beans and vegetable broth instead of meat-based products. This will give you a hearty and satisfying vegetarian chili that everyone can enjoy.
How can I thicken my chili?
If you find your chili too thin, there are several ways to thicken it. You can let it simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina mixed with a little water to the pot. This will not only thicken the chili but also add a nice corn flavor.
What can I serve with Ez Chili?
Ez Chili pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Warm cornbread or tortilla chips are great for dipping, while a fresh green salad adds a nice balance. For a heartier option, you might enjoy serving it alongside some Easy Make Ahead Meatballs or as a filling for chili-stuffed baked potatoes. The combinations are endless!
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).