Hot Chili Beans
A hearty, spicy chili with ground beef and kidney beans, packed with bold flavors. Perfect for cozy dinners and suitable for gatherings with friends or family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped pepper, chili powder, salt, and garlic salt in a large pot.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the meat mixture.
- Simmer the chili for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with milk and cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor profile. Remember to taste and adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot chili beans with a side of cornbread for a comforting meal. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top enhances the flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad or serve alongside Lu'S Roast Beef for an added protein boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chili Beans contains roughly 306 calories, with 20g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% 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 advance?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and enjoy the enhanced flavors.
What can I serve with hot chili beans?
Hot chili beans pair wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even over baked potatoes. You can also serve them with tortilla chips for a fun twist. For something lighter, a fresh salad complements the dish well.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze hot chili beans! Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
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).