Hot Chili And Beans
A hearty, spicy chili with beans, tomatoes, and seasoned beef, perfect for comforting gatherings or a warming weeknight meal with bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger meat and drain.
- Add chili seasoning packet with 1/2 cup water to the cooked meat.
- Add tomatoes and beans to the mixture.
- Stir until well combined.
- Add chili powder, crushed red pepper, jalapeno peppers, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the chili for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork. You can substitute the hot chili beans with black beans or kidney beans if preferred. Adjust the heat by varying the amount of jalapenos and crushed red pepper. If you want a thicker chili, let it simmer longer or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. This dish pairs beautifully with classic American recipes like cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot chili in bowls, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some grilled ham steaks to complement the chili's heat and richness.
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 stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. If the chili thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chili And Beans contains roughly 224 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (245% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1415mg per serving (62% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by replacing the hamburger meat with a plant-based meat substitute or simply using more beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Ensure to select a vegetarian chili seasoning to maintain the flavor profile.
How can I adjust the heat level of this chili?
To adjust the heat level, you can reduce the amount of jalapenos and crushed red pepper. For a milder version, omit the crushed red pepper entirely, and use mild chili seasoning. Conversely, for extra heat, add more jalapenos or include a dash of hot sauce.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
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).