Fast Chili
A quick and hearty chili packed with ground beef, beans, and savory tomato flavors, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped celery, and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add tomato soup and kidney beans to the skillet.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen mixed veggies. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chili powder or diced jalapeños. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. This Fast Chili is also versatile; feel free to include corn or bell peppers, similar to Quick Chili Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fast Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice, making it a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or tortilla chips for a complete dining experience. For a twist, serve it with a side of American recipes like Hot Dog Meat Loaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast Chili contains roughly 506 calories, with 31g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and protein (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1104mg per serving (48% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Fast Chili in advance. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Adjust the liquid as needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Is there a way to make this chili spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños during cooking. You can also top the finished dish with hot sauce or serve it with spicy pickled jalapeños for extra kick.
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).