Fiesta Chili
Fiesta Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, beans, and a spicy chili powder blend. Its smoky and savory notes make it perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, offering comfort and bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt bacon fat in a deep heavy pan; add chopped onions and diced jalapenos and cook over low heat until done, but not browned.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 10 minutes.
- Drain liquid from beans into a small bowl and save.
- Add beans, condensed tomato soup, chili powder, and salt to the beef in the pan.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pan and let the chili cook slowly over low heat for about 30 minutes.
- If the chili gets too dry, add the desired amount of bean liquid.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or cumin to the chili. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils. You can also use other beans like black beans or pinto beans. Adjust the heat by varying the number of jalapenos or using milder peppers. This Fiesta Chili pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fiesta Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. It pairs well with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Mexican Noodles or a fresh salad. This chili is also perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Fiesta Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or bean liquid to restore moisture, or microwave in short intervals stirring frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fiesta Chili contains roughly 1204 calories, with 57g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (114% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 Fiesta Chili in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Fiesta Chili a day or two in advance. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after sitting in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in a microwave before serving.
Can I add more vegetables to the chili?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté the vegetables along with the onions and jalapenos for best results.
Is there a way to make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more jalapenos or include some diced serrano peppers. You can also incorporate hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your spice preference!
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).