Great Chili
A hearty, cheesy chili packed with beef, beans, and spicy tomatoes, perfect for casual gatherings and comforting meals with a bold flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Place the cooked beef, chili beans, Ro-Tel tomatoes, Velveeta cheese, and whipping cream into a crock-pot.
- Mix all ingredients well and cook on low until the cheese is melted and flavors are combined, about 2-3 hours.
- Serve the chili over regular-sized corn chips and with a side salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you're short on time, substitute the ground beef with pre-cooked sausage for easier preparation. You can also use cream cheese instead of Velveeta for a different flavor and texture. For a vegetarian version, try replacing the meat with lentils or black beans for a hearty alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili over regular-sized corn chips for a delicious crunch, or pair it with a simple side salad to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving with cornbread or garlic bread. This chili also pairs beautifully with Skillet Stroganoff for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or heat gently on the stovetop over low heat. For a creamier texture, add a splash of whipping cream during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Chili contains roughly 508 calories, with 24g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium.
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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili can be made a day or two in advance. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together.
What can I do if the chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit of beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also add more whipping cream for a creamier texture. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the flavor balance.
Can I freeze the chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
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).