Granny'S Famous Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili packed with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings that love bold, spicy tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and salt in a large pot; drain well.
- Add tomato juice, tomato paste, water, red kidney beans, and chili hot beans to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a slow boil.
- Add a small handful of broken very thin spaghetti to the chili.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with chili powder and water as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin while browning the beef. If you like a spicier kick, incorporate jalapeños or cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use canned beans of your choice. To thicken the chili, mash some beans against the pot's side and stir them in. This recipe is a great base for variations like those found in Jesse'S Easy Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Granny's Famous Chili with fresh cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions add extra flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for a satisfying dinner. This chili complements well with flavors found in American recipes and is perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Famous Chili contains roughly 896 calories, with 36g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (183% of the Daily Value), protein (73% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2223mg per serving (97% 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 transfer the browned beef and other ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your chili even more delicious.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a combination of lentils, black beans, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and flavor.
What can I serve with chili besides cornbread?
In addition to cornbread, you can serve chili with warm tortillas, baked potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, try pairing it with nachos topped with cheese and jalapeños for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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).