Gene Autry'S Texas Chili
Gene Autry's Texas Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of chili sauces, topped with melted Jack cheese and fresh onions. Perfect for casual gatherings or comforting family dinners, its bold flavors and simple preparation make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground round, garlic, onion, and green pepper until tender.
- Add all remaining ingredients except the cheese.
- Simmer the chili for 1 hour on very low heat.
- Add grated Jack cheese just before serving to thicken.
- Top with chopped fresh onions if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground round if desired. To make it vegetarian, replace the meat with additional beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chili sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gene Autry's Texas Chili with warm cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh chopped onions and additional Jack cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of Creamy Hot Chocolate for a cozy dinner. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad or some Tortilla chips on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Texas chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gene Autry'S Texas Chili contains roughly 656 calories, with 50g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (106% of the Daily Value), protein (100% of the Daily Value), and iron (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 30g 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 use different types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can mix in black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to rinse canned beans before adding them to the chili.
How can I make this chili milder?
To reduce the heat, use a milder chili sauce and omit any additional spicy peppers or spices. You can also add more cheese or a dollop of sour cream at serving to balance the flavors.
Is this chili suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Texas chili is perfect for meal prep! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing in portions. Reheat as needed throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
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).