Grandpa'S Quick Chili
Grandpa's Quick Chili offers a hearty, spicy blend of beef and beans with bold flavors, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a 1/2 gallon size saucepan.
- Drain off the grease and turn the heat to low.
- Add tomato juice, dark kidney beans, hot chili beans, and hot chili con carne to the saucepan.
- Add diced onion and garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon). Turn on medium heat and cook until heated through, but do not overcook.
- Season with chili powder to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked ground beef or ground turkey as a substitute for the ground beef. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also swap the salsa for a can of diced tomatoes for a fresher flavor. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with extra beans or lentils, similar to Aunt Pina'S Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy side, making it a perfect complement to your next gathering or game day feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions; just cover and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandpa'S Quick Chili contains roughly 1512 calories, with 82g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (220% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (200% of the Daily Value), and protein (164% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2382mg per serving (104% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a quick meal that's full of flavor.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with a little water. Alternatively, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter base, but be sure to adjust the seasonings to taste.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion before adding the meat, and adjust cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender.
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).