Good Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet until it starts to brown. Drain excess fat.
- Add beans, tomatoes, and chopped onions to the beef.
- Add chili powder and salt to the mixture and stir well.
- Put a lid on the skillet and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also experiment with different beans, like black beans or kidney beans, to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a garden-fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, try it as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling for tacos. This recipe is perfect for game day or any casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Chili contains roughly 267 calories, with 6g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% 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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes work great in this chili. They save time and add a rich flavor. Opt for diced or crushed tomatoes, and if you want a thicker chili, you can use tomato paste to enhance the texture.
How spicy is this chili?
This recipe is mildly spiced due to the chili powder. If you enjoy spicier chili, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give it a kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference to achieve your desired heat.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Chili freezes well and can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot. It's a great make-ahead meal!
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).