Fred Brown'S Chili Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring tender beans, seasoned ground beef, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Spicy and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown in a skillet individually the ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and celery.
- Combine these browned ingredients with tomato sauce, chopped tomatoes, ketchup, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 2 hours.
- Add the cooked beans to the pot and continue simmering for another 2 hours, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin to the meat as it browns. If you prefer a healthier option, lean turkey can be used instead of ground beef. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the beef with textured vegetable protein and add more beans. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, especially after adding the canned ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili beans hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. It’s also delicious with a side of Easy Microwave Stuffed Peppers for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in portions until heated through. This chili also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fred Brown'S Chili Beans contains roughly 145 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1446mg per serving (63% 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?
Absolutely! In fact, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. Just be sure to adjust gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
What other beans can I use in this recipe?
While pinto or pink beans are traditional, you can substitute with black beans or kidney beans for different flavors and textures. Mixing different beans adds variety and can enhance the nutritional profile of the chili, making it even more satisfying.
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).