Hot Chili(For Cold Days)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

A hearty, spicy chili featuring tender venison or beef, bold red pepper flavor, and creamy beans, perfect for warming up on cold days and enjoyed with crackers and cheese.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. venison or beef
  • 1 tsp. crushed red pepper
  • 1 tsp. oil
  • 1 jar Ragu sauce of your choice
  • 1 pt. cooked kidney beans
  • 1 pt. cooked pinto beans
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the meat in oil; drain excess fat.
  2. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
  3. Simmer until flavors meld and chili is heated through.
  4. Serve hot with crackers and cheese.
  5. Grate cheese on top before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your chili, consider adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers when browning the meat. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper or add fresh jalapeños. For a different twist, substitute the venison with ground turkey or chicken. Don't hesitate to experiment with additional spices like cumin or paprika to elevate your chili's profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hot chili garnished with grated cheese and accompanied by crunchy crackers or cornbread for a satisfying meal. A fresh side salad or coleslaw can balance the richness of the chili. This dish pairs beautifully with Quick Midget Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner spread, perfect for cold days.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during storage.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hot Chili(For Cold Days) contains roughly 1015 calories, with 42g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and iron (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

1015 kcal 51% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 42.3g 85% DV
Total Fat 63.3g 81% DV
Carbs 72.7g 26% DV
Fiber 28.3g 100% DV
Sugar 2.6g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 893.7mg 39% DV
Potassium 1713mg 36% DV
Cholesterol 78.1mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 44.5mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 13.9mg 15% DV
Calcium 187.4mg 14% DV
Iron 11.2mg 62% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Prepare it in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

What can I serve with this chili?

This chili can be served with a variety of sides. Try pairing it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Beef Tater Bake or your favorite crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I use canned beans instead of cooked beans?

Yes, using canned beans is a convenient option. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the chili to reduce sodium content. Canned beans will save you time and still provide the same great texture and flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they are already cooked.

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).

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