Five Star Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, beans, and rich spices, perfect for comforting gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal with bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger, onions, and garlic until done.
- Stir in tomato juice, tomato sauce, chili powder, oregano, and cumin.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add chili beans with sauce.
- Continue simmering for 1 hour longer, stirring occasionally.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you're out of chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne can be a suitable substitute. To enhance the flavor, let the chili rest for a few hours or overnight; it tastes even better the next day. For a vegetarian version, swap the hamburger for lentils or a meat substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Five Star Chili with cornbread or over cooked rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Saucy Stuffed Peppers for a delicious dinner spread. Consider serving with tortilla chips for a crunchy texture or adding a side salad for freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five Star Chili contains roughly 971 calories, with 39g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg per serving (39% 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 Five Star Chili in advance?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Make it up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I add to the chili for extra flavor?
You can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of cocoa powder for depth. For a smoky flavor, consider including diced smoked sausage. Fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving can also brighten the dish.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Five Star Chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.
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).