Homemade Chili Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili beans dish featuring ground beef, kidney beans, spices, and tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season ground meat with salt and black pepper. Brown together ground meat, chopped onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in Mexene chili powder, ground cumin, flour, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add tomato sauce and water. Stir to combine.
- Add drained kidney beans and rinse cans with a little water. Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a pot and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer about 30 minutes or more until flavors meld and dish is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your chili beans. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have Mexene chili powder, a blend of regular chili powder with a pinch of paprika can work. Remember to adjust salt and pepper to taste as you go.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade chili beans with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions can add extra flavor and texture. It also pairs beautifully with Bruce'S Enchiladas for a complete Mexican-inspired feast. Consider offering tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or heat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the chili beans for up to 3 months; just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Chili Beans contains roughly 1469 calories, with 64g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (212% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (188% of the Daily Value), and protein (128% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili beans recipe vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Ensure to check that the broth or sauces you use are also vegetarian-friendly if you choose to add them.
How can I thicken my chili beans?
If your chili beans are too soupy, you can thicken them by simmering uncovered for a longer time to let some liquid evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot and stir them back in, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
What can I serve with chili beans?
Chili beans are versatile and can be served with various sides. They go well with rice, cornbread, or even over baked potatoes. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some guacamole on the side to balance the flavors.
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).