Good Ol' Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring lean ground beef, pinto beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for comforting gatherings or weeknight dinners with a touch of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble ground beef into the slow cooker. Add beans, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- In a medium bowl, stir together tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, water, chili powder, salt, oregano, cumin, and pepper until blended.
- Stir the tomato mixture into the meat mixture in the slow cooker.
- Scrape down the sides of the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 1/2 to 4 hours or on low for 7 to 8 hours, or until the onion is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. If you're short on time, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes for the tomato paste. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to enhance the dish. This recipe is great for meal prepping, as the flavors deepen over time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for a creamy contrast. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or rice, making it a hearty meal. For a more adventurous pairing, try it alongside a side of Spaghetti Crescent Casserole for a comforting feast. Add tortilla chips for crunch or a simple salad for freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover 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 it in a covered dish for quick servings. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Ol' Chili contains roughly 617 calories, with 26g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (192% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1046mg per serving (45% 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 different types of meat in this chili?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use diced beef for a chunkier texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of water, and ensure your beans are not canned with meat-based ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a hearty Meaty Chili With Beans without the meat.
What should I do if the chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out spicier than expected, adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt can help mellow the heat. You can also stir in a little sugar or honey to balance the flavors. If you have some on hand, adding more beans or tomatoes can dilute the spiciness without sacrificing volume.
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).