Granny'S Chuck Wagon Chili(Club Member: Brandi Cook)
Hearty and flavorful chili with tender chuck steak, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and bold spices, perfect for comforting gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the cubed chuck steak in vegetable oil in a Dutch oven.
- Remove the meat and set aside, reserving the drippings.
- Saute 3/4 cup chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic in the reserved drippings until tender.
- Add the browned meat, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, water, chili powder, salt, and oregano; mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Sprinkle with remaining chopped onion and shredded Monterey Jack cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. You can substitute the chuck steak with ground beef or turkey if desired, but ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also elevate the dish's freshness. If time is short, explore quicker options like Smoky Cheese Balls as a side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and chopped onions for added texture and flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside Western Rice to soak up the chili's rich sauce, making it a filling and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Chuck Wagon Chili(Club Member: Brandi Cook) contains roughly 554 calories, with 23g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (249% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1596mg per serving (69% 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 a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce on the side for individual spice levels. Adjust the chili powder to your taste as well for a customized heat level.
What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?
If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, you can use cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamy texture. Just ensure that the cheese melts well, as that adds to the richness of the dish.
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).